Operations Manager (Asphalt)

Company: Tarmac Trading Limited
Apply for the Operations Manager (Asphalt)
Location: Bristol
Job Description:

Are you a senior operations leader with a strong background in asphalt production? Do you thrive on driving safety, operational excellence, commercial performance and people development across complex, multi-site operations? Are you ready to shape regional strategy and make a tangible impact across a critical part of the business? This is a high-impact leadership opportunity within Tarmac’s Asphalt business, covering the South West & Wales region.

The Opportunity

We’re seeking a Senior Operations Manager to lead Asphalt operations across the South West & Wales, with accountability for asphalt operations across the region. You’ll lead and inspire a team of experienced managers to deliver:

  • Outstanding health, safety and environmental performance
  • High-performing, reliable and efficient asphalt manufacturing operations
  • Strong financial and commercial outcomes
  • A sustainable, future‑ready leadership and talent pipeline

This is a regional role, offering flexibility on location. Whether you’re based in Bristol, Exeter, Newport, Gloucester, Hereford, Cardiff, Swansea or elsewhere across the South West & Wales, we’re focused on securing the right leader to deliver results. Reporting to the Regional Operations Director, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping and delivering the annual Asphalt strategy for the region.

What You’ll Be Responsible For

As Senior Operations Manager (Asphalt), you’ll lead through others to ensure safe, efficient and high‑quality asphalt production and performance. Your responsibilities will include:

  • Driving industry‑leading safety standards
  • Overall leadership of regional Asphalt operational performance, safety, cost and reliability
  • Leading monthly KPI and performance reviews, driving corrective action and improvement
  • Designing, owning and delivering the annual strategic plan for the Asphalt business
  • Full budget accountability, ensuring financial targets and efficiencies are achieved
  • Driving a continuous improvement culture, sharing best practice and innovation
  • Actively embedding Tarmac’s sustainability strategy, including use of lower‑carbon materials and processes
  • Ensuring production is closely aligned with commercial demand to maximise returns and minimise waste
  • Overseeing product quality, consistency and customer satisfaction
  • Leading customer complaints reviews, ensuring effective root cause analysis
  • Managing capex submissions, maintaining the 5‑year asset and investment plan
  • Working closely with technical, commercial and supply chain teams
  • Developing and retaining a high‑performing, engaged management team

Requirements

You’ll be an experienced senior operational leader with proven success in asphalt manufacturing and/or surfacing operations, within a heavy materials, construction materials or infrastructure environment.

You’ll combine strong technical expertise with commercial insight and the ability to lead at scale. Key experience and capabilities include:

  • Strong understanding of health, safety and environmental legislation in asphalt operations
  • In‑depth technical knowledge of asphalt production, bituminous mixtures and Recycled Asphalt Planings (RAP)
  • Understanding of asphalt plant operations, logistics, supply chain and quality control
  • Proven ability to lead through managers, developing teams and future leaders
  • Commercial acumen with experience managing budgets, costs and margins
  • Appreciation of sustainable asphalt solutions, materials innovation and emissions reduction
  • Strong problem‑solving capability, including root cause analysis
  • Confident communicator with experience engaging senior internal and external stakeholders
  • Analytical mindset, using data and trends to support operational decision‑making
  • Strong organisational and strategic planning skills

A full UK driving licence is essential as a company car or car allowance is provided with this role.

About the Company

At Tarmac, who you are matters. Our Asphalt business plays a vital role in building, maintaining and renewing the UK’s road and transport networks. We are proud of the quality of our products, the expertise of our people and our commitment to safer, more sustainable infrastructure.

Our People

We value people who are:

  • Proud of delivering high‑quality work
  • Collaborative and supportive leaders
  • Ambitious to innovate, improve and drive change

Diversity & Inclusion

We’re committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, where everyone feels valued and empowered to perform at their best. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. If you need any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, just let us know.

Benefits

Alongside this role, you’ll have access to industry‑leading rewards, development opportunities, and a culture that puts people first, including:

  • Bonus scheme
  • Enhanced holiday entitlement
  • Contributory pension scheme
  • Access to the Tarmac Reward website with discounts on retailers, holidays, etc.
  • Access to our Employee Assistance helpline for free and confidential advice
  • Access to join our Employee Communities (employee networks) we currently have nine communities inc. (REACH) Religious, Ethnic, Cultural Heritage, LGBTQ+, Parents & carers, Ability, Wellbeing, Female voice and menopause
  • Training and development opportunities

For Forces Friendly Recruitment

We are committed to being a Forces‑friendly employer. If you’re coming from a military background, we’ll support your transition and help you build a successful career with us. We’re proud to be part of CRH, and even prouder to be an equal opportunity employer.

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Posted: April 20th, 2026