Head of Operations Consulo are proud recruitment partners to a leading and highly innovative British based design and manufacturer of precision mechanical components and industrial solutions. The company operates in a high-mix, low-volume production environment, serving a diverse range of industries. With a commitment to continuous improvement, operational excellence, and customer satisfaction, they are looking for a dynamic leader to drive efficiency and growth within their manufacturing division. Location: North West, UK Reporting To: Managing Director Role Overview: The Head of Operations is responsible for ensuring seamless day-to-day manufacturing operations while driving strategic improvements across production, supply chain, and logistics. The role is crucial in delivering high-quality products on time and at an optimized cost, ensuring adherence to key operational performance indicators. The successful candidate will develop and execute an operational strategy that enhances efficiency, reduces waste, and leverages technology for process improvements. This includes oversight of EH&S, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Logistics, and Manufacturing Engineering. Key Responsibilities: Lead all operational functions, ensuring smooth and cost-effective manufacturing. Deliver key performance improvements, including: 10% reduction in manufacturing scrap annually. 1 percentage point increase in direct labour utilization per year. 10% reduction in setup times for increased productivity. Achieving 90% On-Time Delivery at order line level. Implement Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to drive continuous improvement. Oversee ERP implementation and optimization, ensuring alignment with business needs. Lead CAPEX and OPEX budget planning, ensuring cost-effective investments. Maintain compliance with industry standards such as ISO 9001, 14001 & 45001. Drive safety culture and ensure adherence to Environmental, Health & Safety (EH&S) regulations. Work closely with senior leadership to align operational goals with business strategy. Provide leadership to a team of direct and indirect reports, fostering a high-performance culture. Decision-Making Authority: Operational strategy and process improvements. Budget management and cost control. Performance management of the operations team. Approval of capital investments within set authority limits. Skills & Experience Required: Extensive experience in end-to-end manufacturing operations, supply chain, and production management. Strong knowledge of CNC machining, mechanical assembly, and engineered product manufacturing. Proven leadership in a structured, ERP-driven environment. Expertise in finite scheduling and shop floor reporting software. Experience in high-mix, low-volume production and product customization. Demonstrated success in cost reduction and efficiency improvement initiatives. Strong ability to drive Lean and Six Sigma methodologies. Hands-on leadership approach, including Gemba walks and work center performance tracking. Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills. Education & Qualifications: Degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related field (or equivalent industrial experience). Experience managing large operational teams in a manufacturing environment. Knowledge of ISO 9001, 14001 & 45001 compliance requirements. NEBOSH qualification (desirable). A knowledge of Power Transmission components such as gearboxes, couplings or bearings is desirable. Application Process: This is a critical leadership role within a growing business. If you are an ambitious results-driven operations leader with a track record of success in manufacturing, then this could be for you.