We are partnering with a well-established and growing manufacturing business to appoint an experienced and driven Operations Director. This is a pivotal leadership role, responsible for shaping operational strategy, driving Lean transformation across the shop floor, and building a high-performance culture across the organisation.

The successful Operations Director will combine strategic capability with hands-on operational leadership. You will be equally comfortable defining long-term operational vision and spending time on the shop floor coaching teams, embedding Lean principles, and delivering measurable performance improvements.

This role will suit a commercially aware, people-focused leader who thrives in fast-paced manufacturing environments and has a track record of driving sustainable change.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and deliver the operational strategy aligned to overall business objectives.
Lead, mentor and inspire cross-functional teams across production, engineering, supply chain and quality.
Drive Lean manufacturing initiatives across the shop floor, embedding a culture of continuous improvement.
Identify and eliminate waste, improve flow, increase OEE and enhance productivity.
Champion structured improvement methodologies (e.g. Kaizen, 5S, SMED, Six Sigma, Value Stream Mapping).
Establish clear KPIs and performance metrics, driving accountability at all levels.
Build succession capability and develop leadership strength within operational teams.
Optimise production planning, capacity utilisation and cost control.
Ensure compliance with health, safety and quality standards.
Partner with the executive team to support business growth, capital investment and operational scalability.
The Ideal Ops Director

Demonstrable track record of delivering Lean transformation and shop floor improvement programmes.
Strong background in implementing and sustaining Lean tools and methodologies.
Experience of leading multi-disciplinary teams in a production-led environment.
Evidence of improving productivity, efficiency, cost control and service levels.
Strong financial and commercial acumen.
Data-driven approach to performance improvement