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Job Title:
Operations Manager.
Salary:
Competitive – including a 20% uncapped management bonus (based on company performance).
Location:
Trafford Park, Manchester.
On-site, with secure parking and EV charging provided.
Join a World-Leading Manufacturer Supplying into Energy, Defence and Scientific Industries
The company is an independent, Manchester-based manufacturer of specialist materials used across energy, aerospace, research and engineering projects.
With a 30+ year track record of exporting to 65+ countries, they are a stable, growing business with a strong technical heritage and a people-first culture. Staff retention is exceptional—many examples of people being there 20+ years.
They’re now looking for an experienced Operations Manager to help them scale further, improve coordination between key business units, and modernise operational processes for continued long-term success.
What You'll Be Doing
- Lead operations across three business units.
- Oversee production, maintenance, quality, logistics and safety for 35+ manufacturing staff.
- Manage planning and scheduling to meet customer delivery timelines.
- Develop ERP capability, drive automation of both physical and digital processes.
- Improve cost, quality, delivery and equipment uptime using modern manufacturing practices.
- Develop and manage plant budgets and control operational costs.
- Ensure full compliance with HSE and ISO standards.
- Build a high-performing team with a strong focus on training and development.
- Report directly to the Ops Director and act as a bridge between site and corporate strategy.
What We're Looking For
- 10+ years in manufacturing or industrial operations.
- At least 5 years in senior leadership.
- Proven success improving performance across safety, cost, quality, delivery.
- Strong leadership and cross-functional collaboration skills.
- Solid background in Lean, Six Sigma and continuous improvement.
- Comfortable with ERP (SAP, Syteline) and data analysis tools.
- Degree in Engineering, Operations or related field preferred but not essential.
Why Join?
- Family private healthcare.
- 25 days holiday + 8 bank holidays.
- Buy/sell up to 5 days holiday.
- Scottish Widows pension.
- Up to 30 weeks sick pay.
- Life assurance – 4x salary.
- Enhanced maternity/paternity pay (after 2 years).
- Cycle to Work scheme, EAP and occupational health support.
- Free on-site parking, EV charging, and refreshments.
This is a rare chance to influence the next phase of a well-established business with global reach. If you’re looking to leave a legacy, not just do a job—this is the opportunity.
If you have any questions please still submit an application – I will reach out to you and set up an initial call to go into more detail with you about the role, business and culture.
Neil
