Overview
We are seeking a highly experienced and commercially astute Operations Director to lead and transform operational performance within a private equity backed, international business. The organisation operates at c.£18m turnover with 50+ employees and is entering a significant growth and global expansion phase.
Reporting directly to the board, this role will be pivotal in driving operational excellence, strengthening governance and compliance, and leading transformation across systems, processes, and organisational structure. The successful candidate will also lead the post-acquisition integration and merger of two businesses, ensuring strategic alignment, operational efficiency, and a seamless consolidation of teams, systems, and processes.
Key Responsibilities:
Operational Leadership
Lead end-to-end operational strategy and execution across logistics, and fulfilment
Oversee stock control functions, ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and cost optimisation
Manage operational performance across a growing international footprint, supporting global expansion initiativesPrivate Equity & Growth Environment
Operate effectively within a Private Equity backed business environment, delivering value creation, EBITDA improvement, and scalable infrastructure
Support investor reporting, performance metrics, and strategic initiatives aligned to growth targetsMergers & Acquisitions
Proven track record in successful M&A integration, including operational alignment, cultural integration, and delivery of synergies
Lead post-acquisition integration of systems, processes, teams, and supply chainsSystems, Processes & Transformation
Own and lead systems strategy, implementation, and optimisation across the business
Lead systems integration across acquired businesses and legacy platforms
Redesign end-to-end operational processes to improve efficiency, scalability, and control
Drive automation and digitisation of core operational workflowsStructure & Governance
Oversee organisational structures to support growth, accountability, and performance management
Implement and maintain robust governance frameworks, ensuring compliance across all operational areas
Take responsibility for compliance in international trade, import/export regulations, and operational riskPerformance Management
Introduce and embed a formal performance and appraisal process, cascaded through line management structures
Build a high-performance culture with clear KPIs, accountability, and continuous improvementLeadership & People Management
Lead and develop operational teams
Strengthen leadership capability across middle management and operational functions
Foster a culture of ownership, accountability, and delivery excellenceKey Requirements
Proven experience as an Operations Director or senior operational leader in a £30m-£100m+ turnover business
Experience in the transport sector or similarly complex, customer-facing operational environments is desirable, but not essential
Hands-on experience in procurement and stock control within a product-based business
Previous experience working in a Private Equity backed environment would be an advantage
Demonstrable success in M&A integration and business consolidation
Experience leading systems implementation and enterprise-wide systems integration
Strong track record of process redesign and operational transformation
Experience leading businesses through growth, international expansion, and scaling operations
Strong understanding of governance, compliance, and risk management in a commercial environment
Proven ability to lead and develop teams of 50+ employeesPersonal Attributes
Commercially driven with strong financial and operational acumen
Strategic thinker with hands-on delivery capability
Strong change leader with a track record of transformation
Influential leader able to operate at board and investor level
Highly structured, organised, and process driven
Has an understanding of the link between operational performance and customer satisfaction, using this insight to drive improvements in service delivery and reputation