Operations Manager

Job Title: Operations Manager. Salary: Competitive. Location: Trafford Park, Manchester. On-site, with secure parking and EV charging provided. Join a World-Leading Manufacturer Supplying into Energy, Defence and Scientific Industries The company is an independent, Manchester-based manufacturer of specialist materials used across energy, aerospace, research and engineering projects. With a 30+ year track record of exporting to 65+ countries, they are a stable, growing business with a strong technical heritage and a people-first culture. Staff retention is exceptional—many examples of people being there 20+ years. They’re now looking for an experienced Operations Manager to help them scale further, improve coordination between key business units, and modernise operational processes for continued long-term success. What You'll Be Doing * Lead operations across three business units. * Oversee production, maintenance, quality, logistics and safety for 35+ manufacturing staff. * Manage planning and scheduling to meet customer delivery timelines. * Develop ERP capability, drive automation of both physical and digital processes. * Improve cost, quality, delivery and equipment uptime using modern manufacturing practices. * Develop and manage plant budgets and control operational costs. * Ensure full compliance with HSE and ISO standards. * Build a high-performing team with a strong focus on training and development. * Report directly to the Ops Director and act as a bridge between site and corporate strategy. What We're Looking For * 10+ years in manufacturing or industrial operations. * At least 5 years in senior leadership. * Proven success improving performance across safety, cost, quality, delivery. * Strong leadership and cross-functional collaboration skills. * Solid background in Lean, Six Sigma and continuous improvement. * Comfortable with ERP (SAP, Syteline) and data analysis tools. * Degree in Engineering, Operations or related field preferred but not essential. Why Join? * Family private healthcare. * 25 days holiday + 8 bank holidays. * Buy/sell up to 5 days holiday. * Scottish Widows pension. * Up to 30 weeks sick pay. * Life assurance – 4x salary. * Enhanced maternity/paternity pay (after 2 years). * Cycle to Work scheme, EAP and occupational health support. * Free on-site parking, EV charging, and refreshments. This is a rare chance to influence the next phase of a well-established business with global reach. If you’re looking to leave a legacy, not just do a job—this is the opportunity. If you have any questions please still submit an application – I will reach out to you and set up an initial call to go into more detail with you about the role, business and culture. Neil