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 companys 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 capabilitybalancing 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 sites competitive advantage. Qualifications & Skills Degree in Engineering, Science, Manufacturing, or a related discipline. 57 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. Skills : operations manager production manager manufacturing