Head of Operations

A growing UK-based business operating across manufacturing, distribution and international supply chains is seeking an experienced Head of Operations to lead its next phase of growth.

This is a newly created leadership role with significant autonomy. The successful candidate will bring structure, scalability and operational rigour to a commercially strong, entrepreneurial business - improving performance without slowing it down.

Key Responsibilities

• Take overall ownership of operations across production, warehousing, logistics and supply chain
• Lead operational teams, external manufacturers and key suppliers
• Drive production planning, forecasting, stock control and supplier performance
• Oversee UK and international logistics, import/export and customs processes
• Improve delivery performance, lead times and operational efficiency
• Review and rebuild legacy processes and systems to support future growth
• Optimise ERP, purchasing, stock, dispatch and supply chain processes
• Establish clear KPIs, reporting and accountability
• Strengthen collaboration between sales, operations and technical teams
• Drive continuous improvement and appropriate Lean/JIT principles

The Profile

We are looking for a commercially aware, hands-on operational leader who is comfortable working in a fast-paced, growing environment.

You will ideally have:

• Senior operations leadership experience within manufacturing, engineering, wholesale or distribution
• Strong experience in manufacturing, metalwork or engineering environments
• Experience managing subcontract manufacturers and external suppliers
• Strong knowledge of international logistics, import/export and customs
• A track record of scaling and improving operations
• Strong systems, process improvement and data-driven decision-making skills
• Excellent IT and Excel capability

You will be pragmatic, resilient and solutions-focused, with the confidence to challenge existing processes and take ownership of difficult problems.

This is an opportunity for an experienced operations leader to build, improve and shape the operational function of an ambitious and growing business.