Operations Plant Manager - West Sussex
A leading industrial manufacturer is seeking a motivated and experienced Operations Plant Manager to oversee production operations at a key UK site in West Sussex. This role is ideal for candidates from food, chemical, water, plastics, recycling, or oil and gas backgrounds.
This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for ensuring the site operates safely, efficiently, and sustainably. You will play a key part in shaping team culture, driving operational performance, and embedding continuous improvement practices across the plant.
Key Responsibilities
Lead daily plant operations with a focus on safety, performance, and reliability
Build and maintain a collaborative, results-driven team culture
Oversee all aspects of production, maintenance, and resource management
Champion SHEQ (Safety, Health, Environment and Quality) standards through active leadership, audits, and training
Lead safety committees and ensure full compliance with all regulatory requirements
Inspire and develop operational teams to reach their full potential through coaching and performance management
Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, reduce downtime, and improve process control
Take full ownership of site infrastructure, security, assets, and emergency systems
About You
HNC or HND in a relevant discipline, or equivalent industry experience
Proven leadership experience in a production or operations role within an industrial environment
Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to influence at all levels
Strong working knowledge of Health and Safety practices, including ISO standards
Demonstrated success in leading teams, managing budgets, and delivering operational targets
Proactive problem-solver with strong decision-making abilities under pressure
NEBOSH General Certificate preferred, or willingness to work towards it