Operations Manager

Operations Manager (Integrated Portfolio Team (IPT) Operations Lead), 📍 West Sussex – Hybrid / Flexible Working 🏭 Defence Manufacturing Environment 🔒 UK Security Clearance Required About the Role: We are recruiting for an experienced Operations Manager (Integrated Portfolio Team Operations Lead) to oversee and drive the day-to-day performance of key Integrated Portfolio Team (IPT) operations within a complex manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for ensuring the smooth, efficient, and cost-effective execution of operational activity, acting as the bridge between IPT teams and manufacturing/delivery functions. You will contribute to IPT strategy and lead its execution, ensuring that service levels, productivity, quality, safety, and cost targets are consistently achieved. The role operates within a matrix organisation, requiring strong cross-functional leadership across Engineering, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Quality, and Industrialisation Engineering teams. Key Responsibilities: Operational Leadership: * Lead daily operations to ensure consistent delivery of products * Own demand and supply alignment across IPT operations * Monitor KPIs and drive improvements in productivity, quality, & efficiency * Ensure compliance with internal policies, industry standards, and regulatory requirements * Own make-or-buy decisions with input from Engineering, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, and Industrialisation teams People & Team Leadership: - Indirectly manage, coach, and develop operational teams in a matrix structure - Oversee planning, scheduling, and resource requirements - Promote a positive, safe, and accountable workplace culture - Support performance reviews, coaching, and identification of training needs - Work closely with Operational Excellence teams to support continuous improvement Process & Continuous Improvement: - Identify operational bottlenecks and implement workflow improvements - Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean / Six Sigma methodologies - Ensure SOPs and operational documentation are maintained and up to date - Act as approval authority for Industrialisation Engineering reviews (DFM, DFA, DFL) Financial & Resource Management: * Manage operational costs and resource utilisation against budget * Support forecasting and capacity planning activities * Contribute to cost reduction initiatives through effective utilisation of people, equipment, and materials * Develop capacity plans for IPT operations Cross-Functional Collaboration: * Support operational readiness for new product or service introduction * Provide operational input to strategic planning activities * Support customer engagement and collaboration where required About You: You will bring: * Proven experience in matrix operations management within defence, manufacturing or similar highly regulated environments * Strong understanding of operational processes, workflow optimisation, and performance management * Experience with continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Kaizen, Six Sigma) * Strong capability in data analysis, KPI management, and reporting * Experience using MRP/ERP systems * Engineering or manufacturing background (degree or equivalent experience) * Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills * A hands-on approach to managing operational teams What’s on Offer: * 37.5-hour working week * Early Friday finishes * Hybrid/flexible working arrangements * 28 days annual leave + Christmas closure * Pension scheme with matched contributions * Income protection and life assurance * Wellbeing support and employee benefits platform * Strong learning and development opportunities UK Security Clearance: Due to the nature of the role, candidates must be eligible for UK Security Clearance and able to provide evidence of UK residency history as required. Apply Now: If you have experience leading operations in a complex Defence manufacturing environment and enjoy driving performance across cost, quality, and delivery, we’d be interested in hearing from you. Application deadline: Thursday 7th May