Operations Manager

About the Opportunity Contek Recruitment are working on behalf of a well-established, family-owned manufacturing business with over 90 years of heritage. The company specialises in bespoke and repeat manufacturing, supported by in-house tooling and a loyal, long-standing customer base. They also deliver larger, special-purpose projects and supply to both UK and international markets. Due to planned retirement, the business is seeking an ambitious and capable individual to join with a clear succession plan to General Manager, ultimately taking full responsibility for running the company. This is a rare opportunity to step into a leadership role with genuine long-term progression and ownership-level responsibility. The Role This position offers far more than a traditional Operations Manager role, combining operational leadership, customer engagement, and commercial responsibility. Working closely with the Managing Director, you will take ownership of the day-to-day running of the business, with a structured transition into full leadership. You will play a key role across operations, pre-production, customer management, and strategic growth, acting as a central link between clients, production, and the wider business. Key Responsibilities Operations & Production - Oversee daily operations across production, tooling, and dispatch - Manage workflow across bespoke and repeat manufacturing orders - Coordinate production planning, including larger special-purpose projects - Ensure delivery targets, efficiency, and quality standards are met - Work closely with manufacturing teams to advise on processes and improvements - Take responsibility for pre-production activities, from enquiry through to job launch Customer & Commercial - Act as a key point of contact for customers from enquiry to delivery - Interpret engineering drawings and advise clients on product applications - Support generation of new business and identify growth opportunities - Manage subcontractors and external suppliers - Maintain strong client relationships and ensure high levels of service Leadership & Strategy - Support the Managing Director in the day-to-day running of the business - Lead, motivate, and develop a skilled manufacturing team - Take ownership of site Health & Safety - Contribute to mid- and long-term strategic planning - Identify and implement process and operational improvements About You Essential: - Proven experience in a manufacturing or engineering environment - Strong operational leadership and organisational skills - Ability to manage both people and production processes - Strong commercial awareness and customer-facing experience - Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings - Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills - A proactive, hands-on approach with strong problem-solving ability within a small team of 10 Desirable: - Apprentice-trained or qualified in an engineering discipline - Toolmaking or machining background - Experience in bespoke or low-volume manufacturing environments - Knowledge of materials and manufacturing processes - Exposure to export or international supply The Opportunity - Clear and genuine pathway to General Manager - Opportunity to take over the running of a successful, long-established business - Structured handover with the current Managing Director - A varied role combining operations, sales, leadership, and strategy - Long-term career stability with significant progression potential Who This Would Suit - An experienced Operations Manager ready to step into a senior leadership role - A Production Manager or Senior Engineer seeking progression into management - A commercially aware individual with ambitions to eventually run a business Benefits * Monday–Thursday: 8:00am – 5:00pm * Friday: 8:00am – 1:00pm * 28 days holiday rising to 34 with service (including bank holidays) * Free on-site parking