Company Description
Cloud 9 Leadership Select is a Leadership and Executive Search consultancy specialising in Packaging, Automation, Renewables, FMCG, Manufacturing across the UK and Europe. Since 2007, we have partnered with clients to deliver tailored senior-level appointments. We go beyond traditional Executive Search by offering in-house Skills and Psychometric Assessments to enhance hiring and workforce planning.
Senior Site Leadership | Packaging Manufacturing | South West
Imagine finishing the working day with a walk along the coast, dinner by the water, or a weekend exploring some of Devon’s best beaches.
This is a significant Operations Director appointment with a major global player in the packaging sector.
The business is entering an important phase of growth, investment and operational development. They are now looking for a commercially minded, people-focused Operations Director who can lead from the front, assess current capability, maximise existing assets and help shape the future operational strategy for the next 5 to 10 years.
This is not a “steady-state” operations role.
It needs someone who can bring structure, pace, clarity, engage teams, build trust, improve performance and lead positive change in a practical, credible way.
The Role
You will take overall responsibility for operations across two manufacturing sites, covering production, planning, engineering and distribution.
Working as part of the senior leadership team, you will be responsible for improving performance, strengthening operational discipline and ensuring the sites are set up for future growth.
A key part of the role will be reviewing current machinery, site capability and operational flow, then advising on the best route forward for future investment, including machinery, CAPEX and long-term manufacturing strategy.
You will also lead continuous improvement activity, drive efficiency, improve OEE, support safety and quality standards, and create a culture where people are engaged, accountable and clear on what good looks like.
What We Need
This role needs a proven senior operations leader from the packaging sector.
You must have successfully led change in a manufacturing environment and be able to demonstrate where you have improved performance, developed teams and delivered operational transformation.
You will need to be comfortable operating strategically, but also visible and hands-on when required. This is a 100% site-based role, so presence, leadership and credibility on site will matter.
Key Priorities
- Lead operations across two packaging manufacturing sites
- Maximise existing machinery, assets and site capability
- Shape future investment plans, including machinery
- Improve operational performance, efficiency, OEE and productivity
- Lead successful change management across the sites
- Engage and develop teams through clear, visible leadership
- Strengthen planning, engineering, production and distribution performance
- Support a positive, safe and accountable site culture
- Contribute to the wider growth strategy of the business
What You’ll Bring
- Senior operations leadership experience within packaging manufacturing
- A proven track record of successful change management
- Strong manufacturing, engineering and continuous improvement knowledge
- Experience leading multi-disciplinary operational teams
- Commercial awareness and the ability to make sound investment decisions
- Strong people leadership, coaching and engagement skills
- Confidence working with senior stakeholders and site leadership teams
- A practical, resilient and solutions-focused approach
Why This Role?
This is a rare opportunity to join a global packaging business at a pivotal stage of growth and investment.
You will have the autonomy to influence operational direction, assess future capability and play a key role in shaping how the sites develop over the coming years.
There is a highly attractive package available, including relocation support for the right person.
For an operations leader who wants impact, autonomy and a lifestyle move to the South West, this is a standout opportunity.
Retained Search Partnership
Cloud 9 is acting as the Retained Recruitment Partner for this Assignment.
All applications, approaches and enquiries relating to this opportunity must be made directly to Yvonne Redhead at Cloud 9 to be considered for this opportunity.
All conversations will be handled with complete discretion and confidentiality.
If you have not been invited for an interview within 7 days of applying, please assume that your application has not been successful.
Application Deadline: 8th June 2026
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