Operations Leader

We are seeking a hands-on, safety-focused professional to oversee operations at a high-hazard chemical manufacturing site. This role is ideal for someone passionate about OpEx, team development, and driving continuous improvement.

As Operations Leader, you will take ownership of the site''s performance, leading a team of 20+ employees to deliver on safety, quality, and production targets. You will be responsible for embedding a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring compliance with all safety and quality standards, and coaching your team to achieve their full potential.

Salary & Benefits:

• Competitive annual salary
• Enhanced holiday entitlement
• Pension scheme with employer contribution
• Bonus Scheme
• Health and wellbeing benefits, including private medical and Employee Assistance Programme
• Canteen facilities and staff discounts
• Opportunities for career development

Key Responsibilities of the Operations Leader:

• Lead and manage daily plant operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant processes.
• Drive team performance through coaching, mentoring, and robust development plans.
• Foster a culture of safety, ensuring high standards in QSHE practices.
• Collaborate with planning, engineering, and supply chain functions to optimise production and manage shutdowns.
• Identify and resolve operational deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Deliver continuous improvement initiatives using Lean/Six Sigma or similar methodologies.
• Maintain disciplines, SOPs, and quality standards across the site.
• Support planning and contribute to strategic improvement initiatives.

Required Qualifications & Experience:

• Degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or relevant industrial experience.
• Proven experience leading chemical manufacturing or process manufacturing in a high-hazard environment.
• Strong track record of achieving safety, quality, and production KPIs.
• Hands-on leadership style with a focus on team development.
• Knowledge of process safety, OpEx frameworks, and Lean/Six Sigma principles.

If you are a motivated Operations Leader seeking a challenging and rewarding role with excellent benefits and opportunities for development, we would love to hear from you.