Job Title: Operations Director
Location: Basildon, with 20% travel to South Africa and our Global Supply Chain Network
About Us: My clients are a dynamic and innovative company seeking a hands-on, entrepreneurial, and results-oriented Operations Director to join our management team and Board of Directors. Our focus is on driving operational efficiency, strategic growth, and cost-saving initiatives.
Role Overview: As Operations Director, you will oversee operations, supply chain, and innovation teams across Essex, UK, and Johannesburg, South Africa. You will play a critical role in shaping the company’s strategy, leading the offshoring of UK-manufactured products, managing global demand planning, and ensuring continuous improvement in operational processes.
Key Responsibilities:
*Team Leadership & Operations Management: Lead a high-performing team, manage demand planning, and contribute to strategic business decisions.
*Offshoring & Value Engineering: Oversee product offshoring and collaborate on product bill of materials (BOM) optimisation.
*Purchasing & Supply Chain Management: Manage global purchasing and develop advanced strategies for cost efficiency.
*Supplier Relationship Management & Negotiation: Lead negotiations and build strong supplier relationships.
*Operational Strategy & Cost Optimisation: Develop strategies to drive efficiency and support business growth.
*Product Development & Innovation: Collaborate on product development and ensure compliance with regulations.
*Quality Improvement & ISO Implementation: Lead quality assurance efforts and promote continuous improvement.
*Board & Management Team Responsibilities: Contribute to strategic direction and provide updates on performance.
*Global Travel & Supplier Network: Travel to manage operations and strengthen the global supply chain.
Person Profile:
*Proven experience as an Operations Director or senior operational role, particularly within an SME.
*Expertise in managing a lean organisation and experience in a private equity environment is advantageous.
*Strong knowledge of supply chain management, demand planning, and global purchasing strategies.
*Demonstrated experience in offshoring production and managing BOM optimisation.
*Entrepreneurial mindset with a track record in operational improvement and cost optimisation.
*Experience leading ISO certification and quality assurance initiatives.
*Excellent leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
Additional Information: This role is based in Basildon, with travel to Johannesburg and other global supply chain locations. As a board-level position, you will provide strategic oversight and drive operational excellence across the business.
If you are ready to take on this exciting challenge and contribute to our growth, we would love to hear from you. Apply now to join their team!