EMEIA Operations Manager
Are you a proactive, hands-on leader with a talent for driving operational excellence?
We’re seeking a dynamic EMEIA Operations Manager to join our team and play a central role in shaping and delivering high-performing, integrated operations across the region. Reporting directly to the EMEIA General Manager, you will lead and coordinate key operational functions-procurement, quality assurance, warehouse & logistics, facilities management, IT, and legal compliance - ensuring they work seamlessly to support the business.
This is a pivotal role for someone who thrives on collaboration, continuous improvement, and cross-functional leadership. You will be instrumental in driving alignment and performance across departments, fostering a culture of accountability, and ensuring our operational infrastructure supports growth and compliance. We're looking for a forward-thinking individual who is both strategic and detail-oriented—someone who can analyse data, identify trends, and implement practical solutions that enhance efficiency, quality, and compliance across the organisation.
Please note this is an on-site role based at our office in St Leonards, East Sussex.
Key Job Elements:
* Strategic oversight working alongside regional department managers as well as the global leadership team of each function.
* Drive efficiency and continuous improvement for the areas of responsibility as well as integration with the rest of the EMEIA organisation.
* Be an advocate for change management and support new cross functional initiatives.
* Quality
Champion quality standards across all operational areas.Monitor quality management systems and continuous improvement initiatives.Lead our European audit programme to ensure ISO compliance.
* Procurement
Execute procurement strategy and supplier management in line with agreed strategic planning to ensure cost effective sourcing and timely delivery.Oversee contract negotiations, vendor performance and risk mitigation.
* Warehouse & Logistics
Manage inventory control and distribution operations.Optimize logistic processes to improve accuracy, speed and cost-efficiency.
* Facilities
Oversee maintenance and compliance on all sites.Focus on long term planning of the EMEIA facility landscape.
* Information Technology
Collaborate with the Global IT team and ensure operational security and efficiency across the EMEIA network.Support digital transformation and system integration initiatives.
* Legal & Compliance
Liaise with internal advisors to ensure regulatory compliance that supports business needs.Support contract management, data protection and risk governance.
* Develop and implement training programs for department leaders.
* Manage budgets for each individual cost centre.Provide reports and analysis of monthly performance KPI’s.
* Other duties as assigned, e.g ad-hoc reporting.
Qualifications:
Required
* Proven experience in a senior operations role with multi functional oversight.
* Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills.
* Excellent analytical, problem solving and decision making abilities.
* Previous experience in Quality assurance and in depth knowledge of ISO 9001.
* Familiarity with ERP systems, supply chain tools and compliance frameworks.
* Ambition to continue professional development in line with business growth and demands
Preferred
* Experience working for a Manufacturer
* Use of Microsoft D365 for Operations.
* Experience of working within an international business.
* MBA
* Six Sigma
Benefits:
* 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
* Matched pension up to 5%
* Health Cash Plan offering £600 per annum towards your standard healthcare costs for both you and your family, plus access to a free 24-hour doctor service
* Income protection insurance
* Cycle to work scheme
* Enhanced maternity/paternity pay
* Corporate, wellness and charity events throughout the year with the option to earn an extra day of annual leave
Please note we have a PSL in place and are unable to accept speculative CV’s from recruitment agencies.
Kurt J. Lesker Company Ltd is a limited company