Operations Manager
Innova Search are working with a specialist manufacturing SME in the West Midlands to recruit an Operations Manager. The business is currently growing due to product demand, with their offering a bespoke manufactured product sold in the UK & overseas.RoleAs the company continues to grow both operationally and commercially, the business is seeking a practical, people-centred leader who can take ownership of day-to-day activity while contributing to the broader strategic direction. You will:Oversee all operational functions, including production, warehousing, and administrative supportProvide strategic guidance to help shape future growthWork closely with the leadership team to make key decisions affecting output, profitability, and customer satisfaction Responsibilities:Take full ownership of all day-to-day operations across office, production, and warehouse functions, ensuring a seamless order-to-dispatch workflowProtect and enhance the company’s reputation for exceptional quality, accuracy, and on-time delivery while supporting the planned scale-upBuild the systems, processes, documentation, and team capability needed to increase production capacity without compromising standardsDevelop, coach, and structure the team so the business has strong internal leaders ready to support future growth improvement to ensure the business grows in a controlled, quality-driven way.Overseeing the complete order cycle: reviewing customer requirements, scheduling production, monitoring workflow, and ensuring packing and dispatch meet exact specificationsWalking the floor across office, production, and warehouse to solve issues in real time and support the team during busy periodsRunning daily team huddles to set priorities, surface bottlenecks, and reinforce quality expectationsReviewing quality checks, resolving any issues before they reach customers, and handling escalations when neededCoaching team members, reviewing KPIs, planning staff development, managing resource allocation, and handling HR matters such as holidays and performanceMaintaining a safe, compliant, well-organised work environmentIndustry Experience:Proven experience running operations in an SME environmentExposure to quality-critical, deadline-driven sectors such as bespoke manufacturing, customised products precision is essential.Essential Requirements:Proven experience in leading multi-discipline teamsDemonstrated success in scaling capacity while preserving or improving quality and delivery performance.Excellent attention to detail, especially around product accuracy, artwork/branding specifics, and quality standards.Strong communication skills and an ability to coordinate workflow across departments.High level of IT proficiencyDesirable Requirements:Experience creating SOPs and operational playbooksCompetence in structured process improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma, or equivalent)Track record in businesses where on-time delivery is mission-criticalHands-on experience working alongside production teams, not just managing from a distance
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