Operations Director - EMEA

Operations Director – EMEASouth East England – International Scope – Hybrid Workingc.£100k-130k + Excellent Bonus (OTE £130K-£160K) + Exceptional Benefits Package

Are you a strategic and hands-on operations leader looking for your next challenge within a global manufacturing and life sciences environment?

Pearson Whiffin Recruitment is proud to be supporting a well-established, international business with a reputation for innovation, integrity, and world-class manufacturing. As part of a high-performing senior leadership team, this newly developed role offers the opportunity to shape operational excellence across multiple European sites.

What you’ll be doing:

As Operations Director for EMEA, you’ll be responsible for leading all aspects of operations across three key production sites in the UK, France, and the Netherlands. This includes Engineering and Manufacturing functions, end to end Supply Chain including Warehousing and Facilities and continuous improvement, inclusive of HSE and Quality.

Key responsibilities include:

• Championing a culture of operational excellence and continuous improvement across multiple international sites.
• Harmonising best practices and driving Lean/6 Sigma implementation to enhance productivity and performance.
• Building and developing a resilient workforce through effective coaching, performance management, and succession planning.
• Leading capital planning, budgeting, and resource forecasting in line with business growth strategies.
• Ensuring all manufacturing operations comply with strict pharmaceutical and safety regulations.
• Collaborating with senior stakeholders to ensure business continuity, security, and global alignment on technical and strategic initiatives.
• Being a visible and influential member of the EMEA leadership team, with a dotted line to global operations.

What we’re looking for:

• A proven leader with significant experience in a senior operations role within a regulated manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of pharmaceutical or life sciences operations is highly desirable.
• Experience leading cross-functional teams and multi-site operations in a fast-paced international context.
• A strategic thinker with a hands-on approach and strong Lean/CI credentials.
• A collaborative, people-first leader who thrives on building capability, culture, and continuous improvement.
• Willingness to travel between sites across the UK and mainland Europe as needed.

What’s in it for you?

• A unique leadership opportunity within a values-driven organisation known for innovation and collaboration.
• Involvement in shaping regional operations at a strategic level.
• Excellent salary and a comprehensive benefits package including:
  • Bonus scheme
  • Enhanced pension contributions
  • Private medical and dental
  • Life assurance
  • Long service awards
  • Generous holiday allowance with holiday buy/sell options
  • Subsidised staff restaurant
  • Flexible and hybrid working
  • Training, development, and clear progression pathways

If you’re an operations leader ready to make a tangible impact across EMEA, we’d love to hear from you.

This role is being handled by Emily Powell, Associate Director for Pearson Whiffin Recruitment

Not quite the right role but still looking?

Whether you are entry or Executive level, our team of experienced Recruitment specialists can help you with your career. We are Kent’s leading independent consultancy and pride ourselves on delivering an exceptional service to both candidates and clients.

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