Job Description
Rayleigh | Multi-Site | Up to £70,000 + Discretionary Bonus | Pool Car Provided | Monday to Friday | 9am to 5pm
The Role
We are recruiting for an experienced Operations Manager to take operational ownership of a well-established manufacturing business operating across two sites in Rayleigh, Essex and Letchworth, Hertfordshire.
This is a hands-on leadership role suited to someone with a strong background in engineering or machine shop environments, who can lead teams, improve processes and drive performance across production and operations.
The role involves regular travel between UK sites, as well as occasional international travel to meet clients and suppliers, so flexibility to travel is essential.
Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will play a key role in ensuring the smooth, efficient, and profitable running of the business.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and manage manufacturing operations across two sites
* Oversee Production Manager and shop floor teams
* Drive production planning to meet delivery targets
* Manage stock control, procurement and supplier relationships
* Implement KPIs and support continuous improvement initiatives
* Ensure operational efficiency and high standards across production
* Work closely with senior leadership on business performance
* Support compliance and quality processes where required
Essential Experience
* Proven leadership experience within a manufacturing or engineering environment
* Strong man-management and team leadership capability
* Background in engineering, machining, or a machine shop environment
* Experience overseeing day-to-day production/operations
* Ability to drive performance, improve processes and manage workloads across teams
* Understanding of stock control and supply chain processes
* Willingness to travel between two sites
* Willingness and ability to travel overseas for client meetings and supplier visits
Desirable
* Exposure to ERP systems (e.g. Unleashed)
* Basic financial awareness (budgets, costs, margins)
* Experience with Quality Management Systems (QMS) or regulated environments
* Continuous improvement / Lean exposure
Candidate Profile
* Hands-on, practical leader who leads from the front
* Strong communicator, confident managing teams and stakeholders
* Commercially aware with a problem-solving mindset
* Organised, adaptable and comfortable in a fast-paced environment
* IT literate (MS Office essential)
Package
* Up to £70,000 base salary, depending on experience
* Annual bonus
* Pool car provided for site travel
* 25 days holiday + bank holidays
* Private Healthcare
* Pension
* Long-term opportunity within a growing business
Ready to take on a leadership role with real operational impact? Apply today by contacting Louise at 121 Personnel — we’d love to hear from you!