Operations Manager

Operations Manager - Southampton
 
We are looking for Operations Manager to one of our clients, leading manufacturer, delivering high-quality, innovative transport solutions to major logistics and haulage operators.  With multiple manufacturing sites and a strong reputation for engineering excellence, safety, and continuous improvement, we are now looking to appoint an experienced Operations Manager to lead our Southampton facility.
 
The Role:
As Operations Manager, you will take full responsibility for all site operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and commercially viable delivery of production output. Working closely with the Production Manager, and reporting to senior leadership you will manage the site autonomously while aligning with the wider strategic direction of the business.
You will have ownership of Health & Safety, Production, Quality, People, and Commercial performance, driving efficiencies and continuous improvement across the site.
 
Key Responsibilities:
Health & Safety

• Full ownership of health and safety on site
• Drive a strong "safety-first" culture
• Ensure operators are appropriately trained and compliant
• Enforce health and safety standards on the shop floor

Production:

• Ensure daily production targets are consistently met
• Optimise production line efficiency
• Set TAKT times at each cell to balance workflow
• Deliver ongoing cost and efficiency improvements

Quality:

• Continually monitor quality systems with a zero-defect mindset
• Ensure all type approval and critical quality checks are completed on every unit

People & Leadership:

• Lead, motivate, and inspire teams
• Identify training needs and develop structured training programmes
• Oversee labour planning and workforce resourcing
• Drive performance standards and accountability

Commercial & Reporting:

• Manage budgets, KPIs, P&L, and operational metrics
• Deliver commercially viable output
• Provide clear reporting and performance updates to senior leadership

What We''re Looking For:

• Proven experience in a senior operations or production leadership role within manufacturing
• Background in a fast-paced manufacturing or production environment
• Automotive or heavy manufacturing experience is a distinct advantage
• Strong leadership experience managing skilled, blue-collar teams
• Track record of improving safety, quality, productivity, and cost performance
• Experience implementing Lean / Continuous Improvement methodologies
• Strong commercial awareness and stakeholder communication skills

Salary & Package:

• Salary: Up to £60,000, depending on experience
• Company pension
• Opportunity to lead a strategically important and growing site

This is a rare opportunity to take full operational ownership of a key manufacturing facility within a well-established and ambitious business. You''ll have the autonomy to shape site culture, drive meaningful improvements, and build a high-performing team with visible impact on business success.
 
Apply today!

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