Head of Operations

Head of Operations - Lancaster - Manufacturing (On-site) - Monday to Friday (37.5 hours 9-5)

Butler Rose Senior Leadership are delighted to be retained on behalf of our client to appoint into a brand new role of Head of Operations, joining their Senior Leadership Team at their site on the outskirts of Lancaster.

This is a pivotal appointment at a time of significant growth and transformation. The business holds the largest market share in the UK within its specialist field and is experiencing sustained growth of 10–15% per annum.

Be part of the journey as they continue to evolve for the future in this very exciting local operation.

The Opportunity

Reporting directly to the Managing Director, the Head of Operations will take full responsibility for a complex manufacturing operation, leading 3 direct reports and a wider team of c.55 employees.

We are seeking a dynamic, forward-thinking leader who thrives in a growth environment and is passionate about driving operational excellence, leading change, and building high-performing teams.

This is a people-heavy, non-automated manufacturing environment, where success will come from being visible, hands-on, and truly embedded with the team on the ground. Leadership here is about presence, engagement, and bringing people on the journey.

Culture is at the heart of this organisation — the Senior Leadership Team embodies collaboration, accountability, and a shared commitment to success. This role is critical in continuing to build and strengthen that culture.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end manufacturing operations, ensuring efficiency, quality, and scalability
• Drive operational excellence across production, logistics, and material flow
• Own and manage the operations budget with a focus on performance and cost control
• Deliver strategic projects, process improvements, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Ensure compliance with ISO 9001 and regulatory standards

About You

• Proven experience operating at senior leadership / director level within manufacturing
• Background in medical devices, optical, precision engineering, or complex manufacturing environments (essential)
• Demonstrated success in people-led manufacturing environments (non-automated)
• A hands-on, visible leader who thrives on engaging with teams and driving performance through people
• Strong track record of leading change and delivering operational transformation
• Experience across production, supply chain, facilities, and operational systems
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 and Lean / Six Sigma methodologies
• Degree-qualified in a relevant discipline

Package & Benefits

• Salary: £65,000+ DOE
• Health insurance
• Opportunity to shape and influence the future direction of a growing business
• Senior leadership exposure with real impact

Apply Now

This role is live and ready to interview immediately, so we encourage early applications.

All applications are being managed exclusively by Lindsey Tremble, Director at Butler Rose.

Suitable applicants will be contacted directly and guided through the process with full confidentiality maintained.