Operations Manager

Company: Jan Hughes Executive Search
Apply for the Operations Manager
Location: Chippenham
Job Description:

Operations Manager | Wiltshire | 4-Day Week (Mon–Thurs | 39 Hours) | On-site

A well-established and growing UK manufacturing group is looking for a hands-on Operations Manager to take ownership of day-to-day production and operational performance at a key site. This is a pivotal leadership role where you’ll drive efficiency, structure, and performance, ensuring consistently high-quality output in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment.

The Role

You’ll be responsible for the full production lifecycle from job intake through to final delivery ensuring smooth workflows, strong planning, and reliable execution.

Key focus areas include:

  • End-to-end production planning and scheduling
  • Driving efficiency through KPIs and continuous improvement
  • Managing capacity, workflow, and resource allocation
  • Maintaining strong quality control across all outputs
  • Streamlining processes to improve speed and consistency

Leadership & Team Development

  • Lead, motivate, and develop a production team of 20+
  • Create a high-performance, accountable working culture
  • Manage rotas aligned to a 4-day working week
  • Run regular 1:1s, set objectives, and support development
  • Address performance issues constructively and proactively

Customer & Stakeholder Focus

  • Act as the key contact for production timelines and delivery updates
  • Ensure clear communication between internal teams and customers
  • Handle queries and escalations professionally
  • Build strong, long-term client relationships

What We’re Looking For

  • 5+ years’ experience in Operations or Production Management
  • Background in manufacturing, print, or design environments
  • Experience leading teams of 20+ people
  • Strong organisational skills across production, procurement, and quality
  • Confident communicator with strong leadership presence
  • A proactive, solutions-focused approach with a drive for improvement

What’s On Offer

  • 4-day working week (Monday–Thursday, 39 hours)
  • Competitive salary (based on experience)
  • Key leadership role within a growing UK group
  • Supportive, collaborative team environment
  • Clear progression opportunities within the wider business

If you’re looking for a role where you can genuinely shape operations, lead a team, and make a visible impact, this is worth a conversation. Apply confidentially.

Posted: July 12th, 2026