Operations Director

We are supporting Lignacite, a leading UK manufacturer of sustainable concrete blocks, in their search for an Operations & Production Director. Operating across two major sites in Brandon (Suffolk) and Nazeing (Essex), Lignacite supplies high-performance products to the construction industry and is renowned for quality, innovation, and long‑term stability. This is a senior leadership role overseeing all operational performance, people management, and continuous improvement across both manufacturing sites.

• Provide visible, hands‑on leadership across both production sites
• Drive operational performance, efficiency, OEE, quality, and safety
• Lead and develop large multi‑skilled teams (2 direct reports, 40+ indirect)
• Oversee production planning, resource allocation, and labour management
• Manage capital projects, site upgrades, and new technology implementation
• Maintain high standards in H&S, environmental compliance, and QMS
• Oversee raw materials, inventory control, and product quality assurance
• Lead relationships with key suppliers and manage major contract negotiations
• Support integration of new product innovations into full‑scale production

• Senior operational leader from heavy manufacturing, aggregates, quarrying or related industries
• Highly hands‑on and resilient with strong site presence
• Experienced in leading large teams and managing complex operations
• Strong understanding of CI, automation, process optimisation and KPI delivery
• Commercially aware with board‑level potential
• Capable of driving cultural change and building high‑performing teams

• Long‑established and highly respected UK manufacturer
• Significant influence across two major production sites
• Strong leadership support, including transition with outgoing director
• Excellent long‑term progression with clear strategic impact

This is a fantastic opportunity for a driven operations leader to join Lignacite and shape the future of its manufacturing capability. Apply today for immediate consideration.