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.