Head of Operations

Location: Newcastle upon Tyne

Job Title:

Head of Operations

Location:

Newcastle-upon-Tyne Salary: £70 - 80K per annum
About the Role We are seeking an experienced and commercially minded Head of Operations to take full ownership of site operations for a high-technology, advanced engineering manufacturer.
This is a senior leadership role with responsibility across Production, Quality, Maintenance, Facilities, Supply Chain, and Logistics.
You will carry entrepreneurial accountability for operational performance, ensuring the site consistently delivers excellence across Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, and People, while building a world-class operations function underpinned by Lean principles and KPI-driven management.
Working closely with the Managing Director, you will shape and execute the site strategy, translating business goals into operational excellence and sustainable growth. This role suits a hands-on leader who combines strategic thinking with strong shop-floor presence.

Key Responsibilities Strategic & Entrepreneurial Leadership   
Take full accountability for site operational performance and manufacturing outcomes.
Develop and deliver the operations strategy in partnership with the Managing Director.
Translate strategy into measurable KPIs, operational targets, and improvement plans.
Own operational budget planning, cost control, and investment proposals with Finance.
Lead long-term workforce planning and organisational capability development.
Operational Excellence & Continuous Improvement   
Drive a culture of operational excellence across all manufacturing and support functions.
Lead Lean transformation using proven methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma.
Ensure continuous improvement of productivity, quality, safety, and delivery performance.
Develop and implement new operational management methods and best practices.
Lead workplace improvement, process optimisation, and change initiatives.
Quality, Compliance & EHS   
Ensure full compliance with ISO 9001, legislative, and corporate requirements.
Take site-level responsibility for Environmental, Health & Safety performance.
Maintain strong governance, audit readiness, and process discipline.
Ensure operational processes are defined, monitored, and consistently followed.
People Leadership & Development   
Build, coach, and develop a high-performing multi-level operations leadership team.
Act as a visible role model, maintaining strong engagement across the shop floor.
Sustain Lean capability through structured training and development.
Lead change positively, embedding a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
Cross-Functional & End-to-End Operations   
Coordinate the full operational value stream from supplier to customer.
Partner with Engineering, R&D, Quality, Commercial, and EHS teams.
Support new product introduction and scale-up into production.
Improve production planning, scheduling, capacity utilisation, and material flow.
About You   
Proven senior leadership experience within advanced manufacturing, precision engineering, materials, chemical, or regulated production environments.
Strong background in operations strategy, manufacturing performance improvement, and continuous improvement.
Deep understanding of Lean Manufacturing and Lean Six Sigma methodologies.
Demonstrated success in KPI-driven management and operational transformation.
Solid working knowledge of quality systems and EHS requirements.
Confident leader with excellent communication, coaching, and change management skills.
Strong financial awareness, including budget ownership, cost control, and capital planning.
Qualifications   
Degree qualified in Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related discipline.
Lean / Six Sigma certification is highly desirable.
Why Apply   
Take ownership of a complete manufacturing site within a high-technology environment.
Play a pivotal role in shaping operational strategy and business performance.
Lead a culture of Lean thinking and continuous improvement.
Join a respected UK manufacturer with strong growth and long-term career potential.
If you’re a driven and experienced Head of Operations who enjoys leading from the front, building high-performing teams, and delivering operational excellence in a technically advanced environment, this is an opportunity to make a real and lasting impact.
We welcome applications from ambitious operational leaders who are ready to take full ownership of site performance and help shape the future success of a growing, innovation-led business