Head of Production Operations

Head of Production Operations - Essex - £45-50k

Reference: Print Match
1793

Our client specialises in providing high quality printed graphics that incorporate global rollouts across niche projects for a variety of prestigious clients within an array of business sectors.

They currently have an exciting opening for someone to head up operations within their well-established manufacturing business. The successful candidate will have wide ranging exposure of materials such as Dibond and Vinyl and have experience of scheduling work through a busy production department.

Deadline‑orientated, with a passion for quality and sustainability, you will help shape the future of their production operations, supported by dedicated account/project management teams.

Key responsibilities include...

Operational Leadership:

• Lead day‑to‑day production and logistics operations to ensure all print jobs are delivered on time and to quality standards
• Develop, implement and monitor production schedules, workflow and quality control systems
• Ensure clear and concise communication around job progress, lead times and delivery expectations
• Manage consumable material usage efficiently to optimise productivity and reduce waste

People and Team Management:

• Provide strong and assured leadership to production and logistics departments
• Foster a friendly workplace culture that is accountable, collaborative and respectful
• Manage staff working across multiple shift patterns and co‑ordinating overtime as required
• Conduct frequent performance reviews and develop appropriate staff training

Quality and Technical Oversight:

• Continuously improve quality control standards across all production stages
• Support the introduction of new print technologies, materials and production methods
• Oversee equipment maintenance, ensuring that preventative maintenance schedules are in place
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex production challenges with a practical and hands‑on approach

Strategic and Commercial:

• Collaborate with the senior leadership team to align production and logistics goals with broader company strategy
• Act as the bridge between departments, ensuring effective cross‑department collaboration
• Stay informed on emerging technologies and innovations
• Support Account and Project Managers with production advice and insight

Experience and Knowledge:

• Proven within a senior production or operations leadership role within large format printing
• Comprehensive knowledge of large format printing technologies, materials and finishing processes
• Experience in production planning and scheduling to meet varied and demanding deadlines
• Sound understanding of Health & Safety compliance and best practice within a production environment

Skills and Personal Attributes:

• Inspiring leadership style with the ability to motivate and unite multidisciplinary teams
• Strong, solution orientated problem solving and decision‑making skills
• Calm and confident under pressure, capable of managing multiple projects within tight deadlines
• Hands‑on proactive and adaptable in a fast‑paced environment

This is a wonderful opportunity to work with a close, tight‑knit business. If you understand the Large Format sector like no other, have managed a small team and have hands‑on experience of materials such as Dibond and Vinyl, we'd love to hear from you!