Operations Manager
1 day ago
Swansea
Smile Materials was built to inspire progress. Guided by joyous, purposeful principles, we transform discarded materials into beautiful, functional architectural panels and surface products. From our factory in Swansea, our work reaches architects, designers and luxury brands around the world. Our distinctive, circular materials are specified for everything from retail displays and counters to furniture, signage and shower panels. Whether a bespoke order or a large-scale production run, we deliver with creativity, precision and care. Together with our network of like-minded manufacturing partners, we’re expanding the reach of circular design globally, turning would-be waste into design with impact. To support this growth, we’re seeking an ambitious Operations Manager to elevate our supply chain and operations to world-class standards. By driving efficiency, optimisation, and best-in-class practices, you’ll ensure we deliver outstanding performance and a customer experience that truly delights. Main Responsibilities: Health, Safety & Environment (EHS) • Ensure strict adherence to all EHS policies and procedures across manufacturing operations., • Drive a strong safety culture through active hazard and near-miss reporting, with the goal of achieving zero lost-time accidents., • Lead the environmental agenda to deliver a best-in-class carbon footprint and zero landfill waste., • Drive continuous improvement in “right-first-time” performance and reduce customer complaints., • Oversee and develop processes to ensure compliance with ISO9001 and ISO14001 standards., • Deliver daily, weekly, and monthly production output across press, fabrication, mixing, and warehouse operations., • Improve output, OEE, and productivity by monitoring downtime and driving corrective actions., • Set and achieve productivity goals for each manufacturing team., • Develop and optimise resource and production planning to maximise efficiency, productivity, and on-time delivery in full (OTIF)., • Implement and develop a TPM and maintenance system., • Introduce and embed lean manufacturing principles and a 5S culture to world-class standards., • Achieve 100% stock accuracy and ensure an efficient, world-class warehouse function., • Organise fabrication material flow to optimise efficiency., • Manage freight and logistics contracts to ensure cost-effective and reliable service., • Manage manufacturing, distribution, and supply chain costs in line with budget., • Drive productivity and cost improvements across manufacturing and supply chain operations., • Motivate, support, and guide production teams to achieve high performance., • Develop training programmes, ensuring compliance with training matrices and procedures., • Communicate regularly with senior management on operational issues and progress against plans., • Liaise with internal teams and external partners to deliver company policies and goals., • Deputise for the Head of Manufacturing when required, ensuring continuity of leadership and decision-making., • Collate and analyse data to produce production reports and improvement action plans., • Monitor and report hours worked against budgeted hours., • Minimum 3 years’ experience as an Operations Manager, Manufacturing Manager, or in an engineering management role with a desire to transition into a broader operations function., • Preferably from a plastics, fabrication, or hydraulic press production environment., • Technically minded with a strong understanding of manufacturing processes., • Proven track record of achieving manufacturing KPIs and delivering improvements in right-first-time (RFT) performance and overall efficiency., • Hands-on experience with MRP systems and managing goods-in and despatch operations., • Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies., • Excellent organisational, project management, and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify areas for improvement and propose practical solutions., • Highly results-oriented, flexible, and energetic, with a proactive and driven approach., • Strong communication skills and a customer-focused mindset., • Analytical with excellent attention to detail., • Relevant degree or equivalent experience (desirable). What We Offer: Opportunity to work for a unique, eco-driven company committed to repurposing waste materials for sustainable solutions. Competitive salary: up to £55,000 per annum depending on experience. Bonus and EMI Scheme Company pension contribution Full-time hours: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday – Flexible start and finish times Small, friendly work environment fostering growth and development. Emphasis on multi-skilling and personal growth; employees are encouraged to explore various roles and responsibilities beyond their job titles.