Operations Manager

Operations Manager - Southampton
 
We are looking for Operations Manager to one of our clients, leading manufacturer, delivering high‑quality, innovative transport solutions to major logistics and haulage operators.  With multiple manufacturing sites and a strong reputation for engineering excellence, safety, and continuous improvement, we are now looking to appoint an experienced Operations Manager to lead our Southampton facility.
 
The Role:
As Operations Manager, you will take full responsibility for all site operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and commercially viable delivery of production output. Working closely with the Production Manager, and reporting to senior leadership you will manage the site autonomously while aligning with the wider strategic direction of the business.
You will have ownership of Health & Safety, Production, Quality, People, and Commercial performance, driving efficiencies and continuous improvement across the site.
 
Key Responsibilities:
Health & Safety

Full ownership of health and safety on site
Drive a strong "safety‑first" culture
Ensure operators are appropriately trained and compliant
Enforce health and safety standards on the shop floor Production:

Ensure daily production targets are consistently met
Optimise production line efficiency
Set TAKT times at each cell to balance workflow
Deliver ongoing cost and efficiency improvements Quality:

Continually monitor quality systems with a zero‑defect mindset
Ensure all type approval and critical quality checks are completed on every unit People & Leadership:

Lead, motivate, and inspire teams
Identify training needs and develop structured training programmes
Oversee labour planning and workforce resourcing
Drive performance standards and accountability Commercial & Reporting:

Manage budgets, KPIs, P&L, and operational metrics
Deliver commercially viable output
Provide clear reporting and performance updates to senior leadership What We're Looking For:

Proven experience in a senior operations or production leadership role within manufacturing
Background in a fast‑paced manufacturing or production environment
Automotive or heavy manufacturing experience is a distinct advantage
Strong leadership experience managing skilled, blue‑collar teams
Track record of improving safety, quality, productivity, and cost performance
Experience implementing Lean / Continuous Improvement methodologies
Strong commercial awareness and stakeholder communication skills Salary & Package:

Salary: Up to £60,000, depending on experience
Company pension
Opportunity to lead a strategically important and growing site This is a rare opportunity to take full operational ownership of a key manufacturing facility within a well‑established and ambitious business. You'll have the autonomy to shape site culture, drive meaningful improvements, and build a high‑performing team with visible impact on business success.
 
Apply today