Job Title: Operations Manager
Location: Essex
Reports to: Group Managing Director
Direct Management Responsibility for: Quality, Production Manager, Milling Section, Turning Section, Grinding Section, Machine Operators, Autoclave Production
Summary of the Job Purpose:
We are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee and optimise our manufacturing processes in Precision Engineering and Autoclaves. The successful candidate will ensure cost-effective, quality-controlled production that meets AS13100 and Sabre 4 requirements. This role involves coordinating management policies, statutory and regulatory requirements, and fostering a culture of quality and safety throughout the company.
Main Activities:
- Ensure an appropriate organisation system and procedure for Quality Assurance in Precision Engineering and Autoclave production.
- Promote a company-wide attitude towards product quality in line with AS 13100D and Sabre 4 standards.
- Encourage all employees to take responsibility for quality attainment.
- Oversee capacity planning, contract review documentation, and ensure health and safety and regulatory compliance.
- Collaborate with senior management and Production Managers to develop production plans and schedules.
- Coordinate administrative and technical programs, including manpower planning, production schedules, shipping commitments, and personnel development.
- Ensure production meets key performance indicators as defined in the Quality system.
- Oversee performance development of key staff, including Program Engineers and Production Managers.
- Maintain manufacturing plant, equipment, tooling, and records, and liaise with outside process houses to meet delivery dates.
- Liaise with customers and suppliers regarding delivery changes.
- Foster a culture of adherence to health and safety regulations and practices.
- Manage supplier relationships and ensure timely availability of materials.
- Price up and quote for work to prospective and current customers.
Person Criteria:
Education:
- Engineering qualification and/or leadership qualification.
Experience:
- Minimum of 5 years' experience in aerospace engineering and commercial-related industries.
- Experience in the Autoclave industry is an advantage.
- Experience with enterprise resource planning systems such as SAP, Tricorn, Microsoft Dynamics, or Business Central.
- Proven track record in leadership and team management roles.
- Excellent customer relations and service.
- Experience forging relationships with new and existing customers.
- Familiarity with AS 13100D and Sabre 4 standards.
- Experience working to tight deadlines and within budget.
Skills:
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and quality assurance.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to drive process improvements.
- Knowledge of Health and Safety regulations.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
- Drive to seek out different types of work, including military contracts.
- Ability to motivate others, foster collaboration, and increase morale.
Personal Qualities:
- Dynamic and self-motivated.
- Social and friendly with a positive mindset.
- Ambitious and able to get along with all personalities.
- Sense of humour.
Working Conditions:
- Semi office-based environment with daily activity on the factory floor.