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Location: Droitwich Spa
Reports to: Vice President of Manufacturing
Job Type: Full-time
Job Purpose
The Operations Director is responsible for leading and optimising all operational activities within a manufacturing company specialising in cold forging. This role ensures efficiency, cost-effectiveness, quality compliance, and continuous improvement across production, supply chain, and procurement. Reporting directly to the Vice President of Manufacturing, the successful candidate will play a key role in streamlining processes, managing supplier relationships, and driving operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities
Manufacturing Operations Management
- Oversee and manage daily operations in cold forging manufacturing, ensuring efficiency and alignment with business goals.
- Drive process improvements to enhance productivity, cost efficiency, and product quality.
- Monitor and analyse key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure operational effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.
- Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and industry regulations.
- Implement Kaizen and lean manufacturing principles to optimise production and reduce waste.
Procurement and Supply Chain
- Develop and execute procurement strategies for raw materials and production components used in cold forging.
- Manage supplier contracts and negotiations, ensuring cost-effective, high-quality materials.
- Strengthen supplier relationships and implement risk mitigation strategies to ensure a stable supply chain.
- Oversee inventory management, optimising stock levels while controlling costs and minimising waste.
Strategic Leadership and Continuous Improvement
- Work closely with the Vice President of Manufacturing to develop and execute long-term operational strategies.
- Lead, mentor, and develop cross-functional teams, fostering a high-performance culture.
- Identify and implement efficiency improvements across production, logistics, and supply chain operations.
- Collaborate with senior leadership to ensure alignment with business growth and profitability objectives.
- Champion a culture of continuous improvement, embedding Kaizen principles and best practices throughout the organisation.
Person Specification
Essential Skills and Experience
- Extensive experience in operations management within a manufacturing.
- Strong background in procurement, supply chain management, and supplier negotiations.
- Proven ability to optimise manufacturing processes, reduce costs, and enhance operational efficiency.
- Experience in inventory control, production planning, and supplier relationship management.
- Strong leadership and team management skills, with experience in developing high-performing teams.
- Knowledge of manufacturing techniques, industry regulations, and quality standards.
- Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making abilities.
- Strong Excel skills, particularly in data analysis and reporting.
Desirable Skills and Qualifications
- Knowledge and experience with Kaizen and lean manufacturing principles.
- Degree in Manufacturing, Engineering, Business, or Supply Chain Management.
- Experience in global sourcing and international supplier management.
- Proficiency in ERP systems and procurement software.
Working Conditions
- Based in Droitwich Spa, with occasional travel to suppliers, manufacturing sites, or company locations as required.
- Potential for international travel depending on supplier and operational needs.
Reporting and Performance Management
- Reports directly to the Vice President of Manufacturing.
- Performance is assessed based on operational efficiency, cost savings, supplier performance, production output, and business growth objectives.
