Operations Manager
Competitive salary + Car Allowance + Bonus + Life Assurance
South Coast / Hampshire Region
A well‑established, highly respected engineering and manufacturing business is seeking an exceptional Operations Leader to manage its end‑to‑end operational function. This role requires a seasoned leader with proven experience of driving performance in a complex, precision machining production environment.
This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a low-volume, high-accuracy machining or engineered components setting and who can elevate operational standards using data, discipline and strong leadership.
The Opportunity
Reporting at senior leadership level, you will take full accountability for:
* Operational performance, KPI management and governance
* Production, planning and workflow execution
* Maintenance strategies and equipment optimisation
* Workforce capability, engagement and leadership development
* Health, safety, compliance and operational excellence
* Continuous improvement and Lean initiatives
You will shape and execute operational strategy, ensuring the business meets its commitments on quality, performance, delivery and cost.
Key Responsibilities
* Translate KPIs into measurable operational improvements
* Drive high standards across production, quality and throughput
* Strengthen controls, reporting discipline and process governance
* Lead Lean, TPM and CI programmes to enhance efficiency
* Deliver robust operational plans aligned with business objectives
* Support CAPEX decisions and champion investment cases
* Optimise operational budgets, resource planning and cost performance
* Develop strong internal and external stakeholder relationships
* Maintain a safe, compliant and audit-ready environment
* Ensure equipment availability and effectiveness
Key Requirements:
* Proven experience leading operations in a precision machining environment
* Strong understanding of low-volume, batch manufacturing
* Financial and commercial acumen
* Confident in data-led decision making and ERP systems
* Lean/CI trained with real examples of delivered improvement
* A resilient, clear, influential leader with high standards
* Engineering or professional qualification (HNC/HND/Degree)
What’s on Offer
* Competitive salary
* Car allowance
* Performance bonus
* Private healthcare, pension, life assurance
* Wellbeing and development benefits