Operations Manager /Production Manager

Reporting to the Plant Manager, this role is responsible for all site production activities, including production planning, shift-based manufacturing, and stores operations. You will lead and develop the production team, drive continuous improvement, and ensure the consistent delivery of high-quality products. As a key member of the site Senior Leadership Team, you will contribute to the creation, implementation, and execution of site initiatives that support the company’s strategic vision.

Key Responsibilities

• Champion and promote a proactive safety culture across the site, ensuring all team members actively identify and eliminate hazards.

• Develop and implement a manufacturing strategy focused on adopting new technologies, improving processes, and elevating overall production capability—balancing efficiency with safety and quality.

• Work closely with functional leaders to ensure strong governance, regulatory compliance, and effective cost management.

• Drive performance across key KPIs: Safety, Quality, Cost, Delivery, Inventory, and Employee Engagement.

• Ensure each production area has clear KPIs, with performance tracked daily and weekly; achieving these KPIs is essential to the role.

• Foster a culture of continuous improvement by integrating Lean Six Sigma principles and embedding a zero-loss mindset throughout the operation.

• Coach, mentor, and develop team members to create a high-performance environment where people feel empowered and engaged.

• Build positive and progressive relationships with employees and unions, supporting constructive employee relations on site.

• Manage and enhance the performance of the manufacturing team by setting clear goals and driving accountability and excellence.

• Use strong data analysis and process-optimisation skills to identify operational opportunities and drive improvements that enhance the site’s competitive advantage.

Qualifications & Skills

• Degree in Engineering, Science, Manufacturing, or a related discipline.

• 5–7 years’ management experience in a regulated or precision manufacturing environment.

• Proven track record of managing multi-shift teams and coordinating across departments.

• Strong knowledge of ISO / IATF 16949 standards, Lean principles, and SOP-driven operations.

• Excellent communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills.

• Proactive approach to fostering a culture of Safety, Continuous Improvement, and Innovation.