Plant Operations Leader: Drive Efficiency & Team

New Appointments Group Ltd; Ashford; On-site; GBP 27,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

20 days annual leave

Bank holidays

Staff discount

Life insurance

Private medical

Company pension

Job summary

New Appointments Group Ltd is seeking a capable Operations Leader to manage the day-to-day operation of the plant in Ashford. This role requires leading a team, ensuring timely production, and driving continuous improvement in a busy manufacturing environment.

You will oversee performance, safety, and quality documentation, while coordinating with Purchasing and management to meet targets and deadlines. A hands-on leadership style and strong communication are essential.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in managing a production/manufacturing/industrial operation.
• Strong people-management and coaching abilities.
• Hands-on leader who works from the front with the team.
• Experience handling performance, attendance and day-to-day employee matters.
• Track record of implementing operational improvements.
• Ability to own issues, decide and resolve effectively.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills to manage priorities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operation and overall plant performance.
• Lead, manage and support the team with clear direction.
• Ensure products are prepared, processed and dispatched on time, in full.
• Collaborate with Production Manager to achieve targets.
• Communicate delays or shortages affecting customer orders.
• Monitor performance and drive corrective actions as needed.
• Handle day-to-day employee matters including performance and conduct.
• Foster accountability, teamwork and clear communication culture.
• Organise the workforce to meet operational needs.
• Maintain production records and quality documentation accurately.

Skills

People management

Hands-on leadership

Communication

Health & Safety

ISO 9001 knowledge

Continuous improvement

Production operations

Job description

New Appointments Group Ltd is seeking a capable Operations Leader to manage the day-to-day operation of the plant in Ashford. This role requires leading a team, ensuring timely production, and driving continuous improvement in a busy manufacturing environment.

You will oversee performance, safety, and quality documentation, while coordinating with Purchasing and management to meet targets and deadlines. A hands-on leadership style and strong communication are essential.