Operations Manager

Operations Manager
Horsham, West Sussex
Competitive Salary (Dependent on Experience)
Full Time, Permanent

 
The Opportunity

We’re looking for an experienced Operations Manager to take ownership of day-to-day operational performance within a complex engineering and manufacturing environment.

This is a key leadership role, responsible for ensuring efficient delivery, alignment of demand and supply, and continuous improvement across an Integrated Portfolio Team (IPT). You’ll act as the link between engineering, manufacturing, and delivery functions—driving performance, improving processes, and ensuring operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Lead daily operations to ensure efficient and on-time delivery
• Own demand and supply alignment, proactively managing risks and opportunities
• Monitor KPIs and drive improvements in productivity, quality, and efficiency
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, company policies, and HSE requirements
• Take ownership of “make vs buy” decisions in collaboration with key stakeholders

People Management

• Lead, coach, and develop teams within a matrix structure
• Oversee planning, scheduling, and resource allocation
• Promote a positive, safe, and accountable working culture
• Support performance management, training, and development initiatives

Process & Continuous Improvement

• Identify operational bottlenecks and implement improvements
• Drive continuous improvement using Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies
• Ensure SOPs, work instructions, and processes are standardised and up to date
• Support design for manufacture (DFM), assembly (DFA), and lifecycle (DFL) reviews

Financial & Resource Management

• Manage operational costs and drive efficiency against budget targets
• Support forecasting, capacity planning, and cost reduction initiatives
• Ensure effective utilisation of labour, materials, and equipment
• Develop and maintain capacity plans aligned with business needs

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Engineering, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Quality, and Finance
• Support new product introductions from an operational readiness perspective
• Provide operational insights to support strategic decision-making

Customer & Stakeholder Management

• Ensure customer expectations and service levels are consistently met
• Resolve escalated issues quickly and effectively
• Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders

What We’re Looking For

Experience

• Proven experience in operations management within a manufacturing or engineering environment
• Experience working within a matrix organisation
• Strong background in performance management, planning, and operational delivery
• Experience with MRP/ERP systems

Skills & Knowledge

• Strong understanding of workflow optimisation and operational processes
• Experience with Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement tools
• Strong analytical and data-driven decision-making skills
• High level of IT literacy, including Microsoft Office

Leadership & Behaviour

• Hands-on leadership style with strong team development capability
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to drive change and lead operational improvements
• Strong organisational and problem-solving ability

 

If you’re an experienced Operations Manager looking to take ownership of a critical function within a complex manufacturing environment, please contact Max Sinclair – max@holtengineering.co.uk
Please note candidates need to have the right to work in the UK and be able to pass SC clearance with a minimum of 5 years residency in the UK.