Operations Manager

Are you an experienced Operations Manager? Do you have a strong Engineering / Manufacturing background and happy to be hands on? Are you interested in supporting the set up of a new Manufacturing facility in Connecticut? If so, we want to hear from you!

We are partnered with a Contract Manufacturing business who are looking to expand their UK operations in the USA! This is a unique opportunity to join at the very beginning, supporting a brand-new manufacturing site and shaping how it operates.

This business will be reflecting their UK holiday leave entitlement for candidates at their USA based facility which is a huge benefit for USA based candidates. This business are firm believers in work life balance and fair opportunity for all, with a culture of collaboration, empowerment and support.

All training will be carried out in the UK, so flexibility for travel is preferred.

Key Responsibilities:

• Project manage the end-to-end setup from initial planning through to full operational launch.
• Lead facility layout design, equipment selection, installation, commissioning, and validation activities.
• Coordinate with stakeholders, contractors, suppliers, and service providers to deliver the site on time and within budget.
• Execute a detailed site readiness plan to achieve full operational capability.
• Ensure all utilities, systems, and processes are fit for purpose and compliant with GMP and regulatory standards.
• Ensure production is carried out safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards.
• Establish standard operating procedures, work instructions, and controls aligned with UK operations.
• Monitor and optimise manufacturing performance.
• Work closely with Engineering to ensure equipment reliability, preventative maintenance, and continuous technical improvement.
• Support future automation, digitalisation, and capacity expansion initiatives.
• Ensure full compliance with ISO 22716 and all applicable US regulatory, safety, and environmental requirements.
• Build a high performing, engaged team with a strong focus on safety, quality, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Lead by example with a hands-on management style.
• Support production planning and scheduling to meet customer demand while maximising efficiency.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and structured problem-solving tools.

Experience and Qualifications:

• Proven experience in an operations or plant management role within a regulated manufacturing environment. (Cosmetics, Pharma, OTC or Food preferred).
• Demonstrated experience in setting up, commissioning, or significantly expanding a manufacturing facility.
• Strong engineering background with the ability to work hands-on with equipment, processes, and technical issues.
• Solid working knowledge of GMP standards, ideally ISO 22716.
• Experience leading and developing teams in a manufacturing setting.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple work streams simultaneously.
• Practical, proactive, and solutions-focused mindset with a strong “can-do” attitude.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Flexibility to travel to the UK for the initial training phase.