Jackson Hogg is delighted to be retained to support the appointment of an experienced Operations Director at Dyer Engineering. This is an exciting phase of growth and looking for an ambitious leader to help achieve operational success.
As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Operations Director is responsible for shaping and executing the operational strategy to support Dyer’s business growth and sustainability objectives. This role will lead all manufacturing, production engineering, quality, and HSE activities to ensure operational excellence, efficiency, and innovation.
The Operations Director will drive continuous improvement, optimise processes, and enhance productivity while maintaining a safe and high-performing workplace. By working closely with the Managing Director and other key stakeholders, they will ensure that operational capacity, workforce planning, and technological advancements align with Dyer’s long-term vision.
Key Responsibilities (not limited to)
Strategic Leadership & Operational Excellence
* Develop and implement a forward-thinking operational strategy that supports Dyer’s growth to £20M+ turnover whilst maintaining EBITDA.
* Drive a culture of operational excellence, ensuring efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness across all production activities.
* Own and manage the P&L for operations, identifying opportunities to optimise costs and improve margins.
* Lead capacity and workforce planning, ensuring the right skills and resources are available to meet demand.
* Ensure strong alignment between sales pipeline, operational targets, and production planning.
Continuous Improvement & Innovation
* Champion continuous improvement (CI) initiatives to enhance productivity, eliminate waste, and maintain a competitive edge.
* Leverage automation, robotics, and digital technologies to optimise manufacturing efficiency.
* Implement data-driven decision-making processes to enhance performance tracking and operational effectiveness.
* Ensure compliance with industry best practices, certifications, and regulatory standards.
Performance, Quality & Safety
* Drive performance improvements across key KPIs: safety, quality, delivery, and productivity.
* Uphold and enhance Dyer’s commitment to a high-quality, customer-focused manufacturing environment.
* Ensure strict adherence to quality and compliance standards, reinforcing a culture of excellence.
* Promote and sponsor the ‘Home Safe Every Day’ ethos, ensuring world-class health and safety standards.
People & Leadership
* Build, mentor, and inspire a high-performing operations team, fostering accountability and collaboration.
* Create a culture of empowerment, innovation, and continuous learning.
* Encourage cross-functional teamwork, ensuring clear communication and strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
Key Skills & Competencies
* Strong leadership, with a proven ability to engage, inspire, and drive performance at all levels.
* Commercially astute with experience in managing operational budgets and P&L.
* Ability to build strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders.
* Strategic thinker who can balance long-term vision with immediate operational needs.
* Data-driven mindset with experience in using digital tools to drive efficiency.
* Ability to respectfully challenge and influence senior colleagues to ensure optimal outcomes.
* Effective communicator, capable of presenting and conversing with diverse audiences.
* Experience leading complex change initiatives and business transformation projects.
Qualifications & Experience
* Degree (or equivalent experience) in Engineering, Manufacturing, or a relevant technical field.
* Extensive experience in a senior operations leadership role within a manufacturing/engineering environment.
* Experience in a Private Equity-backed business (preferred but not essential).
* Strong background in implementing and driving positive change.
* Experience working with automation, robotics, and digital manufacturing solutions.
Travel Expectations
* Able to travel between sites as required.
* Occasional overnight travel may be necessary.
Health & Safety
* Ensure full compliance with company Health & Safety policies and best practices.
* Foster a proactive safety culture, prioritising employee well-being and risk mitigation.
Jackson Hogg is the retained search partner for this appointment. Any third-party applications and CV submissions will be forwarded to Jackson Hogg.