Smile Plastics is a pioneer in recycled surface material innovation. We transform 100% recycled and recyclable plastics into striking decorative panels, furniture, and products that combine exceptional design with sustainability.
As one of the world’s leading suppliers of sustainable plastic surfaces for commercial fit-outs, we partner with a growing list of high-end and repeat customers across interior design, furniture, product design, and architecture. The demand for our materials is accelerating, and with it comes an exciting opportunity: to expand our operations and capture the global market. To support this growth, we’re seeking an ambitious Operations Manager to elevate our supply chain and operations to world-class standards. By driving efficiency, optimisation, and best-in-class practices, you’ll ensure we deliver outstanding performance and a customer experience that truly delights.
Overview
At the heart of Smile Plastics is a clear mission to create the most beautiful sustainable materials in the world while inspiring people to value plastics and eliminate waste. Environmental sustainability isn’t just part of what we do, it’s who we are.
Main Responsibilities
Health, Safety & Environment (EHS)
* Ensure strict adherence to all EHS policies and procedures across manufacturing operations.
* Drive a strong safety culture through active hazard and near-miss reporting, with the goal of achieving zero lost-time accidents.
* Lead the environmental agenda to deliver a best-in-class carbon footprint and zero landfill waste.
* Conduct risk assessments and continuously improve EHS processes and procedures.
Quality & Compliance
* Drive continuous improvement in “right-first-time” performance and reduce customer complaints.
* Oversee and develop processes to ensure compliance with ISO9001 and ISO14001 standards.
* Monitor product standards and implement effective quality control programmes.
Production & Operational Performance
* Deliver daily, weekly, and monthly production output across press, fabrication, mixing, and warehouse operations.
* Improve output, OEE, and productivity by monitoring downtime and driving corrective actions.
* Set and achieve productivity goals for each manufacturing team.
* Develop and optimise resource and production planning to maximise efficiency, productivity, and on-time delivery in full (OTIF).
* Implement and develop a TPM and maintenance system.
* Introduce and embed lean manufacturing principles and a 5S culture to world-class standards.
* Achieve 100% stock accuracy and ensure an efficient, world-class warehouse function.
* Organise fabrication material flow to optimise efficiency.
* Oversee repair and maintenance of production equipment.
Supply Chain & Logistics
* Manage freight and logistics contracts to ensure cost-effective and reliable service.
* Manage manufacturing, distribution, and supply chain costs in line with budget.
* Drive productivity and cost improvements across manufacturing and supply chain operations.
* Ensure effective management of goods-in and despatch functions.
Leadership & People
* Motivate, support, and guide production teams to achieve high performance.
* Develop training programmes, ensuring compliance with training matrices and procedures.
* Communicate regularly with senior management on operational issues and progress against plans.
* Liaise with internal teams and external partners to deliver company policies and goals.
* Deputise for the Head of Manufacturing when required, ensuring continuity of leadership and decision-making.
* Be available on-call to provide operational support when required.
* Collate and analyse data to produce production reports and improvement action plans.
* Monitor and report hours worked against budgeted hours.
* Conduct weekly reviews to report progress, issues, and variances against plans.
Qualifications & Experience
* Minimum 3 years’ experience as an Operations Manager, Manufacturing Manager, or in an engineering management role with a desire to transition into a broader operations function.
* Preferably from a plastics, fabrication, or hydraulic press production environment.
* Technically minded with a strong understanding of manufacturing processes.
* Proven track record of achieving manufacturing KPIs and delivering improvements in right-first-time (RFT) performance and overall efficiency.
* Hands-on experience with MRP systems and managing goods-in and despatch operations.
* Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies.
* Excellent organisational, project management, and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify areas for improvement and propose practical solutions.
* Highly results-oriented, flexible, and energetic, with a proactive and driven approach.
* Strong communication skills and a customer-focused mindset.
* Analytical with excellent attention to detail.
* Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
Details
* Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
* Employment type: Full-time
* Job function: Management and Manufacturing
* Industries: Design Services
We’re seeking a candidate who is hands-on, driven, and ready to make an impact in a growing, sustainability-focused company with global ambitions.
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