Head of Operations

About the CompanyOur client is scaling a new generation of high performance; home compostable packaging made from agricultural by-products.This is a unique opportunity for a commercially minded operations leader who is looking to progress into a future Chief Operating Officer (COO) position as the company continues to grow.The RoleWe need an ambitious manufacturing leader who can build systems, strengthen management capability, commission automation and create the disciplined operating rhythm required for sustained growth.The Factory / Operations Manager will take full responsibility for the day-to-day management of the manufacturing facility (12,000 sq/ft). Ensuring safe, efficient and cost-effective operations while developing a high-performing team.Key ResponsibilitiesBuild practical capacity plans across labour, equipment, moulds, racks, growing and drying, then identify and remove the bottlenecks that restrict safety, quality, output, cost or delivery.Maintain a visible safety culture, full audit readiness, robust quality controls, complete traceability and disciplined investigation of incidents, defects and deviations.Implement Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, 5S, standard work, visual management and structured root cause analysis across the production operation.Lead and develop operational managers, engineers, technicians, shift leaders and production teams, setting clear standards for behavior, accountability and performance.Essential ExperienceA Master’s degree, such as an MSc or MEng, in Engineering, Science or a closely related discipline.Substantial and sustained senior leadership experience in technically complex, high volume manufacturing, with a strong record of operational improvement over a number of years.Experience leading sizeable, multi shift manufacturing teams in a high care, high risk or highly controlled food manufacturing environment, complex automated food production or a comparable regulated operation.Practical experience of PLC controlled manufacturing systems, industrial automation and the commissioning or optimisation of production equipment.