Operations Manager - Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement

Catering; Horsham; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Catering in Horsham, West Sussex, seeks an Operations Manager to own day-to-day performance in a complex engineering/manufacturing environment. This leadership role links engineering, manufacturing and delivery to drive performance, improve processes and ensure operational excellence.

You will lead cross-functional teams, manage demand/supply, and continuously improve through Lean/Six Sigma methodologies, with a focus on safety, quality, and efficiency.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in operations management within a manufacturing or engineering environment.
• Experience working within a matrix organisation.
• Strong background in performance management, planning, and operational delivery.
• Experience with MRP/ERP systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily operations to ensure efficient and on-time delivery.
• Own demand and supply alignment, proactively managing risks and opportunities.
• Monitor KPIs and drive improvements in productivity, quality, and efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, company policies, and HSE requirements.
• Take ownership of make vs buy decisions in collaboration with key stakeholders.
• Lead, coach, and develop teams within a matrix structure.
• Oversee planning, scheduling, and resource allocation.
• Promote a positive, safe, and accountable working culture.
• Support performance management, training, and development initiatives.
• Identify operational bottlenecks and implement improvements.
• Drive continuous improvement using Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies.

Skills

Performance management

Planning

Operational delivery

Data-driven decisions

IT literacy (MS Office)

Tools

MRP/ERP systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

Catering in Horsham, West Sussex, seeks an Operations Manager to own day-to-day performance in a complex engineering/manufacturing environment. This leadership role links engineering, manufacturing and delivery to drive performance, improve processes and ensure operational excellence.

You will lead cross-functional teams, manage demand/supply, and continuously improve through Lean/Six Sigma methodologies, with a focus on safety, quality, and efficiency.