Job Description
Operations Manager - Waste Management & Recycling Sector
Location: Northfleet, Kent (Onsite role)
Employment Type: Permanent
Salary & Benefits: Competitive salary dependant on experience and a comprehensive benefits package.
Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 40 hours per week, with flexible start and finish times to suit your schedule.
We are seeking a dynamic and hands-on Operations Manager to join a leading organisation within the waste management and recycling sector. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced operational leader to step into a pivotal role with real scope to drive change, improve processes, and lead a high-performing team.
About the Role
As Operations Manager, you will take full responsibility for the day-to-day running of a busy waste management facility. The site plays a key role in the collection, transfer, and processing of both solid and liquid waste materials, and requires a forward-thinking individual who can bring structure, introduce process improvements, and ensure safe and efficient operations.
This role offers the chance to lead a high-performing team while reporting directly to the Operations Director. You'll have the autonomy to drive change and ensure smooth, compliant operations, all while fostering a collaborative environment. This is a perfect opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast-paced setting and has a leadership style that brings people together to deliver consistently safe and effective results.
Key Responsibilities
1. Lead Site Operations: Oversee daily activities across waste transfer, transport, and technical teams, ensuring efficient and compliant site performance.
2. Drive Improvement: Implement visual management, 5S, and continuous improvement to boost efficiency and safety.
3. Manage & Develop Teams: Support a team of six development through training, 1-2-1s, and performance management to build a strong, engaged workforce.
4. Ensure Safety & Commercial Control: Promote a safety-first culture while managing budgets, P&L, and operational effectiveness.
We're looking for a confident, hands-on leader with a passion for driving operational excellence and creating a culture of safety and improvement. If you're ready to take ownership of a dynamic site and lead meaningful change, this could be the perfect next step.
You'll thrive in this role if you have:
1. Solid experience in waste management, recycling, or a similar operational environment
2. A proven track record in leading teams, with a sleeves-rolled-up approach to leadership
3. Confidence in budget management and hitting operational performance targets
4. A strong grasp of safety and compliance, with experience embedding high standards across teams
5. Recognised qualifications such as IOSH Managing Safely and WAMITAB COTC (Level 4)
Even better if you bring:
1. A NEBOSH General Certificate
2. Experience promoting behavioural safety or leading continuous improvement initiatives
3. Familiarity with industry standards like ISO9001, ISO14001, and ISO45001
Why Join?
This role offers an exciting opportunity to join a progressive business within a critical and growing sector. You'll have the autonomy to shape and lead operations, influence site culture, and play a central role in driving performance. For someone motivated by improvement, development, and making a real impact, this is a standout opportunity.
Ready to lead operations and shape the future of sustainable waste management? Apply today to be considered.
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