Operations Manager

Operations Manager - Maldon area, Essex - Salary: Competitive + Bonus Scheme

We are recruiting on behalf of a highly respected Precision Sheet Metal Fabrication business based in Essex. The company has built a strong reputation for delivering technically demanding fabrication and welding solutions to long-standing UK technology customers. This is a key senior leadership appointment and an excellent opportunity for an experienced Operations Manager to take ownership of a busy, high-quality manufacturing operation with a strong people-focused culture.

Reporting directly to the MD, the Operations Manager will take full responsibility for the day-to-day running of the production operation, leading the shop floor, developing the team leader structure, and ensuring customer delivery, quality, and operational performance targets are achieved.

This is a genuinely hands-on operational leadership role suited to someone who enjoys being close to manufacturing processes, supporting people, solving problems, and driving continuous improvement across a precision engineering environment.

Duties

Lead and manage the day-to-day production operation across a busy precision sheet metal fabrication facility
Support and develop four Production Team Leaders, strengthening the middle-management structure
Ensure production schedules, quality standards, and customer delivery requirements are consistently achieved
Work closely with Purchasing, Inspection, and Estimating functions to support operational efficiency
Maintain strong working relationships with key customers, acting as a trusted operational and technical point of contact
Support implementation of improvements including production planning, scheduling, ERP, and management system modernisation
Identify opportunities for investment in equipment, plant, and capability improvements
Drive a positive, respectful, and collaborative culture across the business
Ensure Health & Safety and Quality procedures are effectively implemented on the shop floor
Monitor operational performance and report regularly to the MDRequirements

Proven experience in an Operations Manager, Production Manager, or senior manufacturing leadership role within engineering or precision manufacturing
Strong technical understanding of sheet metal fabrication, welding, and manufacturing processes
Experience managing production teams within a fast-paced manufacturing environment
Ability to develop and mentor team leaders and first-line management teams
Experience working directly with customers in technically demanding industries
Strong operational planning, scheduling, and problem-solving skills
Hands-on management style with excellent communication and leadership skills
Experience implementing operational improvements and modern manufacturing systems would be idealWhat's on Offer

Bonus based on company performance
20 days holiday plus bank holidays
40 hours per week
On site parking available Call Julia @ Prime Appointments to discuss or send your application via the advert link.

Candidates who require sponsorship now or in the future will not be considered for this position