Operations Manager
Our client is a leading provider of Certification, Inspection, and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) services. They specialize in delivering quality-focused solutions to the engineering industry.
Role Overview:
They are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Operations Manager to oversee and streamline the day-to-day operations of the business. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in managing resources effectively, driving operational excellence, and achieving the company’s strategic objectives. This individual will uphold our values and provide leadership in a fast-growing, service-driven organisation.
Company benefits:
👉 28 days Holiday Inc Bank holidays. Increasing by 1 day each year
👉 Birthday off
👉 3% Employer Pension contribution, no cap on employee contribution.
👉 Private medical insurance including Dental and optical.
Location: North East, UK
Employment Type: Full-time
Salary: Competitive - up to £60k
Key Responsibilities:
👉 Full responsibility for the Profit and Loss Account, including management of key metrics and targets for Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost.
👉 Track staffing requirements and hire new employees with HR assistance as needed, building a high-performing Operations team to meet company targets.
👉 Lead, motivate, and support the team in a remote and demanding environment.
👉 Implement career development plans for all direct reports, including conducting annual appraisals.
* Implement career development plans for all direct reports, including conducting annual appraisals.
* Develop operational excellence using Lean systems and technologies to eliminate waste in Operations and People.
* Lead change initiatives at both technical and people levels by recommending and implementing improvements in structure and processes.
* Optimise resource planning by developing system infrastructure and data to support decision-making.
* Maintain consistent communication with management, staff, and clients.
* Collaborate with commercial and financial teams to maintain a focus on adding value.
* Participate in company reviews with Directors and external clients as needed.
* Support the seamless introduction of new products and services into Operations.
* Work closely with Supply Chain to control stocks and balance external supply with demand.
Skills and Experience:
Essential:
* Preferred degree-level qualifications in an engineering or business management discipline.
* Significant experience in Operations Leadership roles, preferably within a service-driven organisation.
* Strong people leadership skills with experience in mentoring, coaching, and performance management.
* Ability to understand financial reports and produce key operations data for Director-level presentations.
* Demonstrated experience in environments undergoing significant change with the ability to influence stakeholders.
* Strong background in Lean and Continuous Improvement; Six Sigma or Data Analytics knowledge is advantageous.
* Excellent communication skills, able to clearly convey updates and changes to all levels of the business.
* Experience in introducing new products into Operations.
* Proficient in demand and supply chain planning, preferably using SOP processes.
* Advanced user of Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
Desirable:
* Experience in process measurement and analysis with a data-driven approach.
* High energy and ambition to grow the business, providing strategic input for future development.
* Finance experience, with a strong understanding of P&L management.
Personal Attributes:
* Holds a valid UK driving licence.
* A passion for working in a small, fast-growing business, with the autonomy to develop and shape the role.
* Office-based (Durham) but open to occasional UK travel and potential periods overseas as required.
What We Offer:
* Opportunity to work in a dynamic, industry-leading organisation.
* Competitive salary and benefits package.
* Professional development and training opportunities.
* A supportive and collaborative work environment