Operations Director (Manufacturing)

Job Description:

Operations Director (Manufacturing)

Leicestershire

c£100,000 p.a. + fantastic benefits, DOE

Lead. Innovate. Transform.

• Are you a powerhouse of operational leadership with proven experience in food machinery manufacturing?
• Are you ready to step into a senior role where you’ll drive transformation, push performance boundaries, and shape the future of a fast-growing engineering firm?
• This isn’t just another Operations Director role, it’s your chance to make your mark at the top of a company building world-class manufacturing solutions for the food industry.

The Company:

ER Recruitment are excited to be working exclusively with our client, a rapidly growing and reputable sheet-metal fabrication business based in Leicestershire and renowned for its innovation and precision in delivering high-performance food machinery.

This ambitious, customer-focused firm is growing rapidly and now seeks a visionary Operations Director to lead from the front. You’ll work closely with the Managing Director and Director of Group Operations, bringing bold ideas and strong commercial thinking to the table.

Role & Responsibilities of the Operations Director:

• Play a pivotal role within the Senior Leadership Team, contributing to high-level decisions that shape the future of operations and growth.
• Lead and empower cross-functional teams — technical, operations, and customer service — ensuring excellence across performance, quality, and delivery.
• Support the development and execution of strategic plans, working closely with the Managing Director and business owner.
• Build and maintain high-trust relationships with customers, including handling complex, technical discussions and ensuring their needs are met with precision.
• Ensure seamless project and contract delivery — on time, on budget, and always to the highest standards.
• Champion continuous improvement across the supply chain while promoting a culture of safety and accountability.
• Help drive commercial success with a keen eye on operational KPIs, budgets, and customer satisfaction.

About You as the Operations Director:

• Must have hands-on experience in manufacturing machinery for the food industry — this is essential.
• Deep expertise in precision manufacturing, preferably in sheet-metal or food-processing equipment.
• Proven leadership in a high-pace, quality-driven production environment.
• Commercially savvy with a strong grip on cashflow and KPIs.
• A confident, empathetic leader who balances strategic vision with operational execution.
• Excellent communicator who thrives in technical environments and enjoys engaging with clients and stakeholders at all levels.

Please note by applying for this role you give consent for ER Recruitment to retain your CV for up to 24 months for the purposes of assisting you to find your next role unless you notify us otherwise.

While we aim to get back to all applicants, if you do not receive a response within 7 working days then unfortunately your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.

We are here to help with your career so please send a copy of your CV to us. If you know of anyone else who is looking for their next opportunity, please feel free to refer them to us or pass on our details.

We look forward to hearing from you.