Operations Plant Manager

Operations Plant Manager - West Sussex

A leading industrial manufacturer is seeking a motivated and experienced Operations Plant Manager to oversee production operations at a key UK site in West Sussex. This role is ideal for candidates from food, chemical, water, plastics, recycling, or oil and gas backgrounds.

This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for ensuring the site operates safely, efficiently, and sustainably. You will play a key part in shaping team culture, driving operational performance, and embedding continuous improvement practices across the plant.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead daily plant operations with a focus on safety, performance, and reliability

• Build and maintain a collaborative, results-driven team culture

• Oversee all aspects of production, maintenance, and resource management

• Champion SHEQ (Safety, Health, Environment and Quality) standards through active leadership, audits, and training

• Lead safety committees and ensure full compliance with all regulatory requirements

• Inspire and develop operational teams to reach their full potential through coaching and performance management

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, reduce downtime, and improve process control

• Take full ownership of site infrastructure, security, assets, and emergency systems

About You

• HNC or HND in a relevant discipline, or equivalent industry experience

• Proven leadership experience in a production or operations role within an industrial environment

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to influence at all levels

• Strong working knowledge of Health and Safety practices, including ISO standards

• Demonstrated success in leading teams, managing budgets, and delivering operational targets

• Proactive problem-solver with strong decision-making abilities under pressure

• NEBOSH General Certificate preferred, or willingness to work towards it