Operations Head jobs in United Kingdom

Job Title : Operations Manager.

Salary : Competitive.

Location :

Trafford Park, Manchester.

On-site, with secure parking and EV charging provided.

Join a World-Leading Manufacturer Supplying into Energy, Defence and Scientific Industries

The company is an independent, Manchester-based manufacturer of specialist materials used across energy, aerospace, research and engineering projects.

With a 30+ year track record of exporting to 65+ countries, they are a stable, growing business with a strong technical heritage and a people-first culture. Staff retention is exceptional—many examples of people being there 20+ years.

They’re now looking for an experienced Operations Manager to help them scale further, improve coordination between key business units, and modernise operational processes for continued long‑term success.

• Lead operations across three business units.
• Oversee production, maintenance, quality, logistics and safety for 35+ manufacturing staff.
• Manage planning and scheduling to meet customer delivery timelines.
• Develop ERP capability, drive automation of both physical and digital processes.
• Improve cost, quality, delivery and equipment uptime using modern manufacturing practices.
• Develop and manage plant budgets and control operational costs.
• Ensure full compliance with HSE and ISO standards.
• Build a high‑performing team with a strong focus on training and development.
• Report directly to the Ops Director and act as a bridge between site and corporate strategy.

• 10+ years in manufacturing or industrial operations.
• At least 5 years in senior leadership.
• Proven success improving performance across safety, cost, quality, delivery.
• Strong leadership and cross‑functional collaboration skills.
• Solid background in Lean, Six Sigma and continuous improvement.
• Comfortable with ERP (SAP, Syteline) and data analysis tools.
• Degree in Engineering, Operations or related field preferred but not essential.

• Family private healthcare.
• 25 days holiday + 8 bank holidays.
• Buy / sell up to 5 days holiday.
• Scottish Widows pension.
• Up to 30 weeks sick pay.
• Life assurance – 4x salary.
• Enhanced maternity / paternity pay (after 2 years).
• Cycle to Work scheme, EAP and occupational health support.
• Free on‑site parking, EV charging, and refreshments.

This is a rare chance to influence the next phase of a well‑established business with global reach. If you’re looking to leave a legacy, not just do a job—this is the opportunity.

If you have any questions please still submit an application – I will reach out to you and set up an initial call to go into more detail with you about the role, business and culture.

Neil