Head of operations

Job Description

I’m currently arranging initial confidential screening calls this week for a Head of Operations position within a well-established UK food manufacturing group. This is a critical leadership appointment for a, high-volume & high-profile manufacturing site in Essex, offering a six-figure base salary and benefits.

The Mandate:

This is a highly visible leadership position with full site accountability and the freedom to influence meaningful change. You'll be responsible for elevating operational performance, strengthening leadership capability across the site, and creating a succession strategy that ensures long-term success. Reporting directly to the COO, you will act as their trusted deputy and take ownership of the wider operation whenever required.

What We Need From You:

I am keen to engage with experienced UK Food Manufacturing Senior Leaders who can demonstrate:

• Proven track record of leading and transforming large manufacturing sites
• Experience in high-volume, ambient foods, such as pulses, ingredients, spices, snacks or rice
• Full site leadership exposure with all functions reporting into you
• (Engineering, Ops, Technical, Supply Chain, HR, Finance. Commercial excluded)
• Leadership of a minimum 300+ headcount site across multiple locations
• Ability to build high-performing teams with a clear focus on succession, culture and continuous improvement
• Strong grip on safety, quality, cost and service with evidence to back it up

Why This Role Stands Out:

• Backed by an established group with ambition and investment appetite
• Senior leadership visibility and long-term career potential
• A genuine chance to leave your mark, not just manage decline

Remuneration:

• Salary - Six Figures
• Pension
• Life Assurance
• Holiday Entitlement

This role will suit a credible, values-led site lead who enjoys accountability, pace and developing future leaders not someone hiding behind process.

If you’re open to a confidential conversation, or want to sense-check your suitability, message me directly and I’ll arrange a discreet initial call. My contacts are Giuseppe.Leo@alexandersteele.com or 07857 348079

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