About the Opportunity
Contek Recruitment are working on behalf of a well-established, family-owned manufacturing business based in Essex.
With decades of industry experience, our client specialises in bespoke and repeat manufacturing, supported by in-house tooling and a loyal customer base. The business also undertakes larger, special-purpose projects and supplies to both UK and international markets.
Due to planned retirement, the owners are seeking an ambitious and capable individual to join the business with a clear pathway to step into a General Manager position and ultimately run the company.
The Role
This is a unique opportunity offering far more than a traditional Operations Manager position.
You will initially take responsibility for the day-to-day running of the operation, with a structured transition into full leadership of the business.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee daily operations across production, tooling, and dispatch
- Manage workflow for bespoke and repeat manufacturing orders
- Coordinate production planning, including larger special-purpose machinery projects
- Ensure delivery targets and quality standards are consistently met
- Liaise with customers on technical specifications and requirements
- Support export orders and logistics coordination
- Lead, motivate, and develop a skilled manufacturing team
- Identify and implement process improvements
About You
Essential:
- Proven experience in a manufacturing or engineering environment
- Strong operational leadership and organisational skills
- Ability to manage both people and production processes
- Commercial awareness and an interest in long-term business leadership
Desirable:
- Toolmaking background or apprenticeship highly advantageous
- Experience within bespoke or low-volume manufacturing environments
- Knowledge of machining and production planning
- Exposure to export or international supply
The Opportunity
- Clear and genuine succession plan to General Manager
- Opportunity to take over the running of a well-established, profitable business
- Work closely with the current owners during a structured handover
- Long-term career stability with significant leadership responsibility
- A varied role combining hands-on operations, leadership, and strategic input
Who This Would Suit
- An experienced Operations Manager ready to step up
- A Production Manager or Senior Engineer seeking leadership progression
- An entrepreneurial individual interested in eventually running a business
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