My client is a leading technology business based in the North East of England. Reporting to the Operations Director, my client seeks a proactive and results-oriented Operations Manager to lead their manufacturing operations, with a strong focus on production efficiency, quality leadership, and continuous improvement.
About the role
The Operations Manager will be responsible for managing the end-to-end production and quality functions, ensuring high-performance operations that meet safety, quality, cost, and delivery goals.
Main Responsibilities
* Lead and manage all manufacturing operations, ensuring efficient workflow, resource optimisation, and achievement of production KPIs (output, OEE, downtime, on-time delivery).
* Drive best practices in production scheduling, capacity planning, and materials flow to support customer demand and inventory control.
* Directly lead the Quality function, including quality engineers, inspectors, and technicians.
* Ensure full compliance with industry standards and customer-specific requirements.
* Oversee internal and external audits, corrective and preventive action programs, and quality training initiatives.
* Drive the implementation of a Quality Management System (QMS) that supports operational excellence and customer satisfaction.
* Champion the use of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Kaizen principles to drive process improvements and waste reduction.
* Lead and facilitate cross-functional improvement projects focused on yield, cycle time, cost, and defect reduction.
* Embed a culture of continuous improvement and problem-solving across both operations and quality teams.
* Recruit, lead, and develop a high-performing team across operations and quality.
* Set clear objectives, monitor performance, and foster accountability at all levels.
* Promote a culture of safety, quality, and engagement through effective leadership and communication.
* Work closely with Engineering, Supply Chain, and Product Management teams to support new product introductions, change control, and production scaling.
* Align operations and quality activities with strategic business goals and customer requirements.
About you
The ideal candidate will bring a demonstrated ability to improve manufacturing outcomes, lead quality systems and teams, and deliver tangible improvements through structured continuous improvement methodologies. You will possess demonstrable experience gained in Operations Management within a technology or precision manufacturing based setting. You will be a highly visible and active manager who gains buy in from the shop floor to Director level. A natural problem solver, you thrive being away from your desk, regularly interfacing with all other departments.
Key selection criteria
* Degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or related technical field.
* Demonstrable experience in operations leadership within a technology or precision manufacturing environment.
* Proven leadership of a Quality function, including ISO 9001 compliance, audit readiness, and QMS deployment.
* Strong background in process improvement, lean tools (5S, VSM, SMED), and Six Sigma methodologies.
* Experience with ERP/MRP systems and data-driven performance management.
* Excellent communication, team building, and leadership skills.
* Six Sigma Green or Black Belt certification
* Working knowledge of digital manufacturing tools and Industry 4.0 principles.
* Familiarity with customer audit protocols and supplier quality management