Average Operations Manager salary in Chelmsford

Warehouse Operations ManagerMulti-Site | Freight Forwarding | Full-Time | On-SiteWe are recruiting for an experienced Warehouse Operations Manager to join a highly respected, independent freight forwarder. This is an excellent opportunity to take ownership of multi-site warehouse and logistics operations within a fast-paced, international environment.This role is suited to a hands-on leader who can drive performance, ensure compliance, and lead from the front while contributing to operational delivery when required.The OpportunityYou will oversee operations across two busy freight forwarding facilities, ensuring seamless cargo flow across air, sea, and road freight.This position combines leadership, operational oversight, and commercial awareness, with the expectation of occasional hands-on involvement to support service delivery.Key ResponsibilitiesMulti-Site LeadershipLead and coordinate operations across two warehouse sitesBalance labour, equipment, and storage capacity based on demandMaintain a visible leadership presence and consistent operational standardsProvide operational support during peak periods when requiredWarehouse & Cargo OperationsOversee handling of general, hazardous, temperature-controlled, and high-value cargoEnsure compliance with aviation security, bonded warehouse requirements, and industry regulationsMonitor KPIs including throughput, turnaround times, and accuracyLogistics & TransportManage inbound and outbound transport planning and coordinationDevelop strong relationships with carriers and logistics partnersOptimise cost efficiency and service reliabilityInventory & Customs ComplianceMaintain accurate stock control across ETSF and non-bonded cargoEnsure compliance with customs regulations and audit requirementsWork closely with customs teams on clearances and documentationPeople ManagementLead, develop, and motivate teams across both sitesManage staffing levels, shift planning, and performance reviewsPromote a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvementCompliance, Safety & QualityEnsure adherence to all relevant regulatory requirements and health & safety legislationMaintain SOPs, risk assessments, and audit readinessDrive a proactive safety cultureProcess Improvement & StrategyIdentify inefficiencies and implement operational improvementsSupport system enhancements and digitalisation initiativesContribute to budgeting, cost control, and long-term logistics strategySkills & Experience RequiredProven experience in warehouse or logistics management within freight forwardingStrong knowledge of customs processes, bonded warehousing, and international freight documentationUnderstanding of relevant regulatory frameworksExcellent leadership and communication skillsExperience with WMS/ERP systems and data-driven decision makingA hands-on approach with the ability to support operational activities when requiredQualificationsValid FLT certification (essential)Degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, Business Administration, or similar (preferred)Industry certifications such as IATA, aviation security, or customs training (advantageous)Professional memberships beneficialWorking EnvironmentFull-time, site-based roleCore hours Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5:30pm (flexibility required)Regular presence across both warehouse facilitiesOccasional travel to ports, airports, and customer sitesResponsibility for out-of-hours operational decisionsKey holder responsibilities and security oversightCompliance Requirements5-year continuous employment history requiredMust pass a DBS/CRC checkCompliance with all regulatory standards is essentialWhy ApplyOpportunity to lead multi-site operations within a growing freight forwarding businessA role offering both strategic responsibility and operational involvementWork within a fast-paced environment where you can drive real improvements and impact performance

Operations Manager – Senior Engineering Leader | Essex | On-SiteThis opportunity is working for a growing engineering SME, part of a successful UK Group. We are seeking a strategic Operations Manager to lead day-to-day operations, optimise performance, and drive operational excellence across all projects. Reporting directly to senior leadership, you will manage cross-functional teams, budgets, and resources while ensuring the highest standards of Health & Safety and quality.Key Focus Areas:Leading operational delivery and process optimisation to improve efficiency and qualityManaging project budgets, financial control, and resource allocationMentoring and developing high-performing teamsEnsuring compliance with HSE, legal, and quality standardsCollaborating closely with commercial and finance teams to meet business objectivesIdeal Candidate:Engineering background (electrical preferred) with strong technical insightProven track record in operational leadership within SME or mid-tier engineering businessesIdeally you will have experience in the power industrySkilled at delivering projects on time, within budget, and to high standardsExceptional communication, organisational, and leadership abilitiesThis is a high-impact, senior role offering the opportunity to shape operational strategy, drive efficiency, and influence the growth of a dynamic engineering business. Future opportunities for progression exist within the Group.Apply confidentially.

Operations Manager Rayleigh | Multi-Site | £65,000 – £70,000 + Discretionary Bonus | Pool Car Provided | Monday to Friday | 9am to 5pmThe RoleWe are recruiting for an experienced Operations Manager to take full operational ownership of a well-established manufacturing business operating across two sites, Rayleigh, Essex and Letchworth, Hertfordshire.This is a hands-on leadership role overseeing production, supply chain, buying/sourcing, finance oversight, customer service and compliance. The successful candidate will report directly to the Managing Director and play a key role in driving operational performance and business sustainability.To be considered for this role - To be considered for this role, candidates must have a minimum of 3 years’ UK-based experience in a senior manufacturing or operations leadership position. An engineering background is preferred, however applicants must, at minimum, have significant senior-level experience within a manufacturing environment.You must also have hands-on experience with ERP systems and/or Xero accounting software, along with a proven track record of managing end-to-end operations including production, stock control, supply chain, and budget oversight.** Applicants who do not meet these essential criteria will not be considered.Key ResponsibilitiesLead and manage manufacturing operations across two sitesOversee Production Manager and operational teamsDrive production planning to meet delivery targetsManage stock control and procurement processesImplement KPIs and continuous improvement initiativesEnsure compliance with medical/regulatory quality standards (QMS)Liaise with QA/RA consultants and support auditsOversee budgets, financial decisions, invoice and payroll processesMaintain strong relationships with suppliers and customersWork closely with senior leadership and parent companyEssential Must-Have ExperienceSenior leadership experience within a manufacturing/production environmentProven experience managing end-to-end operations (procurement to finished product)Strong stock control and supply chain management backgroundExperience using Unleashed ERP and/or XeroFinancial oversight experience (budgets, cost control, operational spend)Experience implementing KPIs and driving operational improvementsWillingness to travel regularly between two sitesDesirable ExperienceExperience in regulated industries Experience working with Quality Management Systems and auditsLean/continuous improvement exposureMulti-site management experienceCandidate ProfileStrong operational leader with commercial awarenessConfident managing cross-functional teamsExcellent communicator and stakeholder managerHighly organised with strong IT proficiency (MS Office essential)Degree educated or equivalent business experiencePackage£65,000 – £70,000 base salary, depending on experienceAnnual bonus Pool car provided for site travel25 days holiday + bank holidaysPrivate HealthcarePensionLong-term opportunity within a growing businessReady to take on a leadership role with real operational impact? Apply today by contacting Louise at 121 Personnel or email your CV — we’d love to hear from you!