Operations Manager - Aerospace Manufacturing - This role is for you if you're an Operations Manager who's looking for more than "keep the wheels turning". You want a position where you can lead a major factory relocation, modernise processes, and leave a visible legacy, while running a precision, quality-critical aerospace manufacturing operation day to day. If you thrive on shaping operational strategy, driving measurable performance improvements and leading teams through change, this is a high-impact opportunity with real influence.
The Role
We're seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead daily manufacturing operations within a specialist aerospace components production environment, overseeing end-to-end operational performance across machining, fabrication, assembly, testing and quality. A major element of the position is leading the relocation to a new, state-of-the-art facility, ensuring continuity of output and a smooth organisational transition with minimal disruption to customers.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the planning and execution of the factory relocation, including equipment transfer, layout optimisation, commissioning and ramp-up
Oversee day-to-day manufacturing across machining, fabrication, assembly and testing
Ensure compliance with AS9100 / ISO9001, Health & Safety requirements and customer standards
Drive production scheduling, resource planning and operational efficiency to meet delivery, cost and quality targets
Lead, coach and develop supervisors, team leaders and operational teams
Partner with engineering, quality, supply chain and commercial teams to resolve issues and improve performance
Implement Lean / 5S / Continuous Improvement initiatives to increase throughput and reduce waste
Monitor KPIs including OEE, on-time delivery, scrap, labour utilisation and operational financial performance
Manage contractors, suppliers and specialist service providers during BAU and the relocation
Maintain robust documentation, process adherence and high workmanship standards
Candidate Profile
Proven operations leadership experience in aerospace or precision engineering manufacturing
Strong people leadership and stakeholder management skills
Experience delivering major change (ideally site moves, equipment installs, facility upgrades)
Solid understanding of machining processes, engineering drawings, quality control and production workflows
Highly organised with strong planning, scheduling and problem-solving ability
Competent with Microsoft Office and production planning tools
Desirable: Lean/CI qualifications (e.g., Six Sigma) and/or Health & Safety accreditation
Full UK driving licence
What's On Offer
A pivotal role in a major relocation and operational modernisation programme
Significant influence over production strategy and long-term growth
Competitive, negotiable package tailored to experience and impact.
This is a permanent job with a starting salary dependant on experience. You must have current UK right to work to be considered. HRGO are a recruitment agency supporting UK Manufacturing. We aim to respond to all applications.
