Operations Manager

Overview

In this role you will lead the Wilton manufacturing organisation within a regulated chemical setting to deliver safe, reliable operations and strong performance. You will shape site strategy, drive EHS culture, and develop high-performing teams to meet safety, quality, and production goals. You will partner across functions to sustain continuous improvement and capital projects, influencing overall site performance. This is a visible, mission-driven leadership position in a collaborative, cross-functional environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Wilton manufacturing organisation to achieve safety, environmental, quality, and operational targets
• Ensure safe and efficient plant operations with regulatory and environmental permit compliance
• Drive culture of EHS excellence, discipline, and continuous improvement
• Maximise plant performance and overall equipment effectiveness
• Coach and develop Shift Managers and wider operations team for capability and succession
• Lead operational cost control, productivity improvements, and performance management
• Collaborate with Supply Chain, Maintenance, and Engineering to align activities with site objectives
• Provide operational and technical leadership for safe, reliable plant operations
• Ensure plant modifications and capital projects meet operational and EHS standards
• Maintain Safe Control of Work and promote safety-first culture
• Serve as a member of Site Leadership Team and Site Duty Team on governance and leadership standards

Key requirements

• Degree qualified in engineering; Chartered Engineer status desirable (or working towards)
• Proven leadership in chemical manufacturing or major hazard environment
• Strong knowledge of process safety, EHS compliance, and regulatory requirements
• Track record of delivering safety, reliability, productivity, and cost improvements
• Experience coaching and leading high-performing teams
• Strong stakeholder management and cross-functional communication
• Experience leading organizational change and delivering sustainable improvements
• Ability to provide strategic and operational leadership in a complex manufacturing setting
• Experience in a unionised environment is desirable

• strong communication skills
• leadership and people development
• stakeholder management
• process safety
• EHS compliance
• operational risk management

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