Head of Operations
23 hours ago
Tring
Location: Hertfordshire Reports to: General Manager Purpose of the Role The Head of Operations is responsible for leading and developing all operational functions across manufacturing, supply chain, quality, and production support within a low-volume, high-value engineering environment. The role ensures that Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, and Improvement (SQDCI) objectives are consistently achieved through strong leadership, robust operational processes, and a culture of continuous improvement. Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership * Provide strategic and day-to-day leadership across Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Quality, and Logistics functions. * Own and deliver operational performance against SQDCI KPIs. * Drive a culture of accountability, ownership, and continuous improvement across all operational teams. Manufacturing & Production * Lead operations within a multi-disciplined manufacturing environment, including: * CNC machining * PCB assembly * Wiring and electro-mechanical assembly * Advanced mechanical assembly * Ensure effective cross-functional collaboration between Engineering, Planning, Quality, and Purchasing. * Lead capacity planning, production scheduling, and materials management to meet customer commitments and forecast demand. Continuous Improvement * Drive Lean Manufacturing and 6S principles across all areas, delivering measurable improvements in efficiency, waste reduction, and on-time delivery. * Embed structured problem-solving and root cause analysis methodologies (8D, DMAIC) throughout operations. * Lead effective change management via ECR/ECN processes, ensuring changes are prioritised, implemented, and communicated in line with operational and customer requirements. Supply Chain & Cost Control * Lead supply chain optimisation through strategic sourcing, supplier development, performance management, and risk mitigation. * Partner with Procurement and Finance to deliver cost reduction initiatives, margin improvement, and robust business planning. * Own systems and processes for accurate product costing and stock valuation. Quality, Safety & Compliance * Champion Health & Safety standards, ensuring compliance with legal, corporate, and ISO management system requirements. * Ensure manufacturing processes comply with RoHS, IPC-A-610, and applicable quality standards. * Support audits and maintain compliance with ISO 9001 / AS9100 where applicable. New Product Introduction & Growth * Support New Product Introduction (NPI) and R&D programmes, ensuring smooth industrialisation from prototype through to volume production. * Act as functional lead on major bids as part of the bid team, where required. People Development * Mentor, coach, and develop team leaders and operators through structured PDPs and skills matrices. * Build strong leadership capability within operations to support future growth and succession planning. Required Skills and Experience * Proven senior leadership experience in operations management within precision engineering, defence, aerospace, or similar low-volume/high-complexity manufacturing environments. * Strong background in precision manufacturing and electronic assembly, including CNC machining, PCB assembly, and build-to-print production. * Recognised engineering apprenticeship and/or HNC, HND, or Degree in an engineering discipline. * Strong working knowledge of Lean manufacturing, 6S, and continuous improvement methodologies. * Excellent understanding of ERP/MRP systems, capacity planning, and production scheduling. * Demonstrated success in supplier development, quality improvement, and cost reduction initiatives. * High level of Health & Safety awareness with experience implementing safe systems of work. * Strong analytical and data-driven approach to operational performance management. * Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills. Desirable Experience * Exposure to carbon fibre composite manufacture, RF/waveguide fabrication, or advanced electronic assembly. * Knowledge of ISO 9001:2015 and/or AS9100 quality management systems. * Experience working closely with Engineering and R&D teams to industrialise new designs. * Project management experience within a multi-disciplinary engineering organisation. Key Attributes * Results-driven, pragmatic, and hands-on leadership style. * Confident communicator at all levels of the organisation. * Proactive, solution-focused, and commercially aware. * Strong commitment to operational excellence and continuous improvement. Please get in touch to discuss further details! This is a Great opportunity with a Great client! Desired Skills and Experience Operations Management, Logistics, Supply chain, Manufacturing, Production, Bids, Proposals, Costing, Safety, Quality, Improvement, Leadership.