Director of Operations

Are you an experienced leader with a strong background in manufacturing operations, ready to take on the challenge of running a £40 million business? We are seeking an accomplished Operations Director to join a successful organisation in Sheffield, overseeing a team of 200 full-time employees and driving excellence across all operational functions.

About the Role

As Operations Director, you will take overall responsibility for managing all aspects of operations, including manufacturing, engineering, safety, quality, and supply chain, while maintaining a close working relationship with the commercial team and key clients. Your primary objective will be to optimise plant performance, enhance employee engagement, and uphold the highest standards of operational excellence in a highly regulated environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all operational functions, including manufacturing, engineering, safety, quality, and supply chain.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimise plant performance and maximise asset utilisation.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, focusing on process optimisation and change management.
• Ensure strict compliance with regulatory and quality standards relevant to highly regulated sectors.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and engagement across the workforce.
• Work closely with commercial teams to align operational goals with client requirements.
• Achieve key financial targets, demonstrating strong commercial and financial acumen.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in leading a manufacturing site, ideally producing products or components for highly regulated sectors (e.g., aerospace, automotive, medical, or energy).
• Experience of leading a multimillion pound factory with over 100 FTEs.
• A strong track record in managing change and implementing continuous improvement initiatives.
• Excellent leadership skills, with the ability to inspire, engage, and develop diverse teams.
• Significant expertise in optimising plant operations, processes, and assets.
• In-depth knowledge of health and safety, quality, and regulatory compliance in manufacturing.
• Outstanding communication and stakeholder management skills, with a client-centric approach.
• A strategic thinker with hands-on problem-solving abilities and robust financial acumen.