Operations Manager

Role Overview

Inspire Resourcing are recruiting for an experienced Operations Manager responsible for optimising plant performance, driving continuous improvement, and developing efficient production processes.

This role focuses on analysing operational efficiency, identifying bottlenecks, increasing throughput, reducing cycle times, and improving overall cost effectiveness. You will play a critical role in maintaining performance metrics below target levels while ensuring a safe, high-performing working environment.

You will work closely with site leadership and production teams to foster a positive, motivated, and professional team culture, delivering consistent operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Process Optimisation

Collaborate with senior leadership, supervisors, and operators to identify and implement improved methods of working.

Continuously monitor production processes to ensure they operate within established parameters, making adjustments and recommendations as required.

Analyse process data to ensure operational efficiency, high quality output, and achievement of cost targets.

Lead root cause analysis activities for quality issues or defects, implementing corrective and preventative actions.

Manage site operations in line with business objectives and legislative requirements.

Coordinate cross-functional activities to meet customer demand with a strong focus on quality and efficiency.

Support people-related processes including recruitment, performance management, and employee relations.

Deputise for senior leadership when required, taking overall responsibility for site operations.

Build and maintain strong relationships with a wide customer base.

Identify and develop talent within the team, ensuring effective succession planning.

Performance Monitoring & Reporting

Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as throughput, equipment utilisation, downtime, and defect rates.

Produce regular performance reports for senior leadership.

Identify cost reduction opportunities across operations, including energy usage and material consumption.

Work closely with leadership to ensure profitability meets or exceeds budget targets.

Health & Safety Compliance

Conduct regular site inspections to ensure health, safety, and housekeeping standards are maintained.

Promote a proactive safety culture by challenging unsafe behaviours and encouraging best practices.

Ensure all team members are trained, aware of risks, and compliant with safety procedures.

Maintain accurate and up-to-date safety records and ensure actions are completed.

Oversee planned preventative maintenance (PPM) schedules and ensure documentation is maintained.

Person Specification

Proven ability to collaborate across teams in a fast-paced, hands-on environment

Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, machinery, and production systems

Good knowledge of health, safety, and environmental regulations

Self-motivated with the ability to drive improvements independently

Strong communication skills, both verbal and written

Highly organised and adaptable

Proficient in Microsoft Office

Desirable

• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles (e.g. 5S/6S, Kanban, Kaizen)
• Relevant professional qualifications (e.g. IOSH)
• Strong analytical and project planning skills
• Experience in change management and cultural improvement initiatives
• Proven operational and people management experience within a manufacturing environment

Benefits

• Competitive salary: £60,000 – £65,000 (depending on experience)
• Performance-related bonus (up to 9% of annual salary)
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Employee savings and rewards platform
• Share save scheme
• Employee assistance programme
• Mental health first aid support
• Death in service benefit (3x annual salary)

Requirements

• IOSH or NEBOSH (equivelant qualification)
• Lean Management
• Manufacturing or Engineering background
• Previous Operation Supervisory Skills