Operations Manager

Operations Manager

Step into a high-impact Operations Manager role at a fast-paced industrial packaging and manufacturing site where production, people, and key customers all come together. This environment runs on tight deadlines, heavy-duty materials, and complex client requirements – and needs a steady hand to keep everything moving smoothly, safely, and profitably.

CORE PURPOSE

Take charge of end-to-end site operations – from production lines and key client accounts to safety, quality, and financial control. This role centres on delivering on customer commitments, driving operational excellence, and constantly lifting performance standards across the site.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES Key Account Management

Own relationships with major clients as the primary point of contact for strategic accounts

Share daily production feedback and agree clear action plans to resolve issues fast

Support product development and improvements for new and existing projects

Ensure daily customer requirements are met in line with contracts and SLAs

Run regular client review meetings and performance discussions

Negotiate contracts, renewals, and service terms

Monitor CSAT scores, drive high service levels, and spot risks early

Identify upsell and cross-sell opportunities within existing accounts

Production Planning and Execution

Plan, organise, lead, and control production operations to hit volumes, quality, and deadlines

Develop and roll out improved operational processes and best practices

Ensure adherence to production schedules and daily output targets

Communicate clear production plans to supervisors and shop-floor teams

Tackle bottlenecks, downtime, and production losses with practical solutions

Monitor site performance and compile relevant operational reports

Maintain optimal stock levels in line with SLAs and production needs

Quality and Process Control

Ensure finished products consistently meet quality and customer specifications

Enforce quality procedures, standards, and compliance requirements

Investigate defects, implement corrective actions, and prevent reoccurrence

Conduct regular audits and quality checks on processes and outputs

Analyse quality trends and recommend process improvements

Build and sustain a strong quality culture and management system

Ensure accurate completion and control of all quality documentation

People Management

Identify training needs and roll out development plans across all levels

Manage performance, set clear expectations, and handle reviews and follow-up

Host employee forums and maintain open, effective communication channels

Address HR issues, grievances, and disciplinary matters fairly and promptly

Take part in recruitment, from shortlisting to appointment decisions

Manage workforce planning and staffing levels for efficient site coverage

Motivate, recognise, and engage employees to boost morale and productivity

Liaise closely with HR and payroll on employee-related matters

Maintenance and Engineering

Ensure plant and equipment are maintained to minimise downtime

Oversee adherence to preventative maintenance plans and schedules

Drive corrective actions where maintenance deviations occur

Ensure the right resources, spares, and support are available for maintenance

Manage external service providers and maintenance support processes

Implement and sustain equipment improvement systems such as TPM

Financial Management

Control operational and factory costs within budget parameters

Approve stock and non-stock purchase requests responsibly

Validate payroll inputs accurately and timeously

Contribute to Capex and operational budget preparation

Review invoices for accuracy and resolve discrepancies

Report monthly on financial performance and recommend cost improvements

Administration and Reporting

Maintain strong administrative controls and record-keeping standards

Prepare and present operational and account performance reports

Track KPIs including revenue, growth, and SLA performance

Analyse trends and present data-driven insights to leadership

Recommend operational improvements based on performance data

Transformation and Talent Development

Support transformation initiatives in line with group requirements

Identify and develop internal talent for succession and growth

Create and action career development plans with key employees

Align recruitment with diversity and transformation objectives

SHEQ (Health, Safety, Quality & Environment)

Ensure compliance with ISO 9001 and ISO 45001 requirements

Drive a visible safety culture and “Beyond ZERO” mindset on site

Conduct regular safety meetings and lead continuous SHEQ improvement

Enforce safe working practices and address unsafe behaviour firmly

Ensure statutory, regulatory, and customer SHEQ requirements are met

Promote learning from incidents and ensure corrective actions are completed

Lead by example in all SHEQ behaviours and standards

KEY SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

Strong, hands-on leadership and people management in a production environment

Proven ability to manage key client relationships and stakeholders

Strategic thinker with solid problem-solving capability

Sound financial acumen and cost control mindset

Deep operational and production management experience

Confident communicator and skilled negotiator

Strong analytical and reporting skills with high attention to detail

Uncompromising focus on quality, safety, and compliance

 

REQUIREMENTS

Degree in Business/Project/Production Management

6 – 8 Yeears’ experience in Operations Management