Operations Manager - Waste Management & Recycling Sector

Operations Manager - Waste Management & Recycling Sector

Location: Northfleet, Kent (Onsite role)

Employment Type: Permanent

Salary & Benefits: Competitive salary dependant on experience and a comprehensive benefits package.

Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 40 hours per week, with flexible start and finish times to suit your schedule.

We are seeking a dynamic and hands-on Operations Manager to join a leading organisation within the waste management and recycling sector. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced operational leader to step into a pivotal role with real scope to drive change, improve processes, and lead a high-performing team.

About the Role

As Operations Manager, you will take full responsibility for the day-to-day running of a busy waste management facility. The site plays a key role in the collection, transfer, and processing of both solid and liquid waste materials, and requires a forward-thinking individual who can bring structure, introduce process improvements, and ensure safe and efficient operations.

This role offers the chance to lead a high-performing team while reporting directly to the Operations Director. You'll have the autonomy to drive change and ensure smooth, compliant operations, all while fostering a collaborative environment. This is a perfect opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast-paced setting and has a leadership style that brings people together to deliver consistently safe and effective results.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead Site Operations: Oversee daily activities across waste transfer, transport, and technical teams, ensuring efficient and compliant site performance.
• Drive Improvement: Implement visual management, 5S, and continuous improvement to boost efficiency and safety.
• Manage & Develop Teams: Support a team of six development through training, 1-2-1s, and performance management to build a strong, engaged workforce.
• Ensure Safety & Commercial Control: Promote a safety-first culture while managing budgets, P&L, and operational effectiveness.

We're looking for a confident, hands-on leader with a passion for driving operational excellence and creating a culture of safety and improvement. If you're ready to take ownership of a dynamic site and lead meaningful change, this could be the perfect next step.

You'll thrive in this role if you have:

• Solid experience in waste management, recycling, or a similar operational environment
• A proven track record in leading teams, with a sleeves-rolled-up approach to leadership
• Confidence in budget management and hitting operational performance targets
• A strong grasp of safety and compliance, with experience embedding high standards across teams
• Recognised qualifications such as IOSH Managing Safely and WAMITAB COTC (Level 4)

Even better if you bring:

• A NEBOSH General Certificate
• Experience promoting behavioural safety or leading continuous improvement initiatives
• Familiarity with industry standards like ISO9001, ISO14001, and ISO45001

Why Join?

This role offers an exciting opportunity to join a progressive business within a critical and growing sector. You'll have the autonomy to shape and lead operations, influence site culture, and play a central role in driving performance. For someone motivated by improvement, development, and making a real impact, this is a standout opportunity.

Ready to lead operations and shape the future of sustainable waste management? Apply today to be considered.

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