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Operations Manager - Manufacturing

Job Posted: a month ago

Salary: £ 45,000 - 55,000 / Annum
Job Type: Permanent
Location: Maidstone, Kent

Expire in: 2 days

Job Description

Operations Manager – Manufacturing

Maidstone (5 days on site)

Full Time, Permanent

Contact: Emily – Karabelo Powell or Sammy Messenger, Pearson Whiffin Recruitment

New Year New Role?!

Pearson Whiffin Recruitment is supporting a well-established, international manufacturing business in the appointment of an Operations Manager to take ownership of a Maidstone-based manufacturing facility.

This is a pivotal leadership role, sitting at the centre of production, people and process. You’ll be responsible for ensuring the factory operates efficiently, safely and commercially, while driving continuous improvement and building a high-performing, engaged team.

The role

Working closely with senior stakeholders in the UK and Europe, the Operations Manager will oversee end-to-end manufacturing activity. You’ll play a hands-on role in improving workflows, planning and efficiency, while maintaining a strong presence on the factory floor.

Key areas of responsibility include:

Day-to-day leadership of manufacturing, fabrication, packing and dispatch  
	
Production planning, capacity management and labour utilisation  
	
Identifying bottlenecks and implementing practical process improvements  
	
Leading, developing and motivating multi-skilled teams  
	
Supporting recruitment, onboarding and training  
	
Driving Lean thinking and continuous improvement initiatives  
	
Managing UK purchasing and supplier relationships  
	
Improving cost control, stock management and supply resilience  
	
Maintaining quality standards and supporting ISO-aligned systems  
	
Ensuring health & safety compliance across operations  
	
Working closely with commercial teams and European HQ  

Essential requirements include: 

Proven experience in an Operations or Production Management role within Manufacturing 
	
A technical or engineering background  
	
Experience within fabrication, sheet metal or similar manufacturing environments  
	
The ability to read and interpret technical drawings  
	
Strong people-management and leadership capability; this role requires a manager who leads by example and can cultivate ‘buy in’ from an established team
	
Solid understanding of production planning and operational efficiency  
	
A continuous improvement mindset with a practical, solutions-led approach  
	
Confidence working cross-functionally with international stakeholders  

Experience with ISO 9001, Lean methodologies or CAD systems would be advantageous, but not essential.

Why apply?

A key leadership role within a stable, growing manufacturing business  
	
Genuine opportunity to influence and improve UK operations  
	
Exposure to international collaboration and best practice  
	
A supportive, professional environment with scope for progression  

Interested?

Apply with your up to date CV including full career and academic background

Before You Apply

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Bank details.
National Insurance number.
Date of birth.

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