Operations Director – SME Manufacturing

Location: Derby

Sector: Manufacturing / MRO

Salary: Competitive + Benefits

Are you a hands-on Operations Director with a passion for driving operational excellence in a fast-moving SME manufacturing environment? We're looking for an exceptional leader to join our Derby-based team, operating in the Manufacturing and MRO sector.

About the Role:

Reporting directly to the MD, you’ll lead all aspects of operations across a complex, multi-process manufacturing environment. From supply chain to production, planning to logistics, you'll have the opportunity to shape the future of a growing business.

This role needs a mix of strategic thinking and operational "boots on the ground" leadership — someone who can balance data-driven decision making with strong people skills.

Key Responsibilities:

* Lead and develop the Operations, Supply Chain, and Manufacturing teams

* Drive operational performance across safety, quality, delivery, and cost

* Optimise planning and scheduling processes using MRP systems

* Strengthen supply chain resilience and supplier performance

* Champion Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives

* Lead cross-functional problem solving using data and root cause analysis

* Foster a positive, high-performance culture built on trust, accountability, and development

About You:

* Proven Operations leadership in SME manufacturing (MRO sector desirable)

* Strong MRP / ERP systems experience

* Excellent supply chain knowledge across sourcing, procurement & planning

* Analytical mindset with a passion for process improvement

* High emotional intelligence with exceptional people leadership skills

* Lean/CI toolkit knowledge and hands-on experience

* Comfortable in a multi-process, customer-driven environment

* Resilient, adaptable, and solutions-focused

Why Join Us?

* Dynamic SME culture – ability to make real impact

* Collaborative leadership team

* Opportunity to shape operational strategy

Apply Now

If you’re ready to lead from the front, drive change, and develop people while delivering operational excellence — we’d love to hear from you.

About 1492 Search

In a nutshell – We discover great people! Created with the belief that the process is just as necessary as the opportunity, we decided there was a better recruitment method. Working solely in the manufacturing and engineering industry, we work on retained projects to provide accountability for every hire we make with you. We connect candidates and hiring managers, provide in-depth project management plans and advise through up to date market research. No two hires are the same, and that’s why each project is adapted to your needs. We aim to take the stress out of the hiring process and focus on the job at hand!

We aim to reply to all applications, successful or not, within 2 working days of applying for the role. If you are not happy with the service, please feel free to give us a call or drop us an email.

1492 Ltd and its clients promote a policy of equal opportunities. Our policy is to treat job applicants and employees in the same way regardless of age, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, race, ethnic origin, religion, colour or disability.

Keywords

Operations, director, manufacturing, mro, erp, mrp, lean, supply chain, continuous improvement, emotional intelligence

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