Operations Director

SPT Labtech is seeking an experienced and results-driven Operations Director to lead and optimise operations at our UK manufacturing site. This pivotal role will focus on driving operational excellence, enhancing lean manufacturing processes, and ensuring the highest standards of quality, logistics, and facilities management. The ideal candidate will possess a strategic mindset and a hands-on approach to leadership, fostering a culture of continuous improvement while ensuring the effective delivery of high-quality products.

As Operations Director, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Logistics, Quality Assurance, Procurement, Manufacturing Leads, and Facilities, to align operational strategies with the company's broader business objectives. You will play a key role in ensuring seamless operations, effective resource management, and the integration of lean principles to meet both customer and regulatory expectations. Your leadership will focus on driving continuous improvement, enhancing operational performance, and promoting a culture of excellence within a life sciences manufacturing environment

About us:

Based in Melbourn, near Cambridge, UK, SPT Labtech makes products that transform the way scientists work. For decades, our expert scientists, engineers and business innovators have provided scientists with world-leading, innovative solutions for liquid handling, sample preparation, and sample management that help accelerate research and make a real difference to human health. We work collaboratively with our customers, building trusted relationships that enable us to deliver exceptional, personalised experiences designed for real-world challenges in the lab.

Want to be part of a team that's making a difference to human health?

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement an operational strategy aligned with company objectives, focusing on lean principles and sustainable growth.
• Establish and monitor key operational performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress against business targets and identify areas for improvement.
• Plan and manage production capacity based on customer demand, resource availability, and long-term company goals.

Operation Efficiency

• Ensure timely delivery of high-quality products aligned with Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) forecasts and budget constraints.
• Oversee the management and accuracy of raw material, spare parts, and finished goods inventory.
• Collaborate with Supply Chain and Procurement teams to optimize inventory levels, ensure on-time material delivery, and mitigate supply chain disruptions.
• Lead UK logistics operations, ensuring efficient inbound and outbound supply chain processes.
• Partner with Quality Assurance teams to implement robust quality controls and achieve relevant certifications (e.g., ISO 9001).
• Address and resolve quality issues through root cause analysis, ensuring sustainable, long-term solutions.
• Manage the manufacturing budget, focusing on cost optimization while maintaining high standards of product quality and meeting delivery targets.

Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement

• Champion the integration and continuous implementation of lean manufacturing methodologies and best practices across the UK operations.
• Engage and mentor teams in continuous improvement practices, embedding a culture of operational excellence throughout the organization..

Facilities Management

• Ensure the effective operation and maintenance of site facilities, including equipment, infrastructure, and utilities.
• Oversee health, safety, and environmental (HSE) compliance, fostering a safe and sustainable workplace for the UK site.
• Manage capital projects, including equipment upgrades, UK facility expansions, and energy-efficiency initiatives.

Leadership and Team Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing operations team, promoting a collaborative and inclusive culture.
• Ensure effective communication across teams to achieve shared objectives and drive engagement.
• Support the professional growth of team members through training, coaching, and development opportunities.

Your Qualifications and Experience

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field; advanced qualifications (e.g., MBA, Lean Six Sigma certifications) are desirable.
• Experience:
• 10+ years of operations management experience in manufacturing, with a focus on lean principles.
• Proven experience managing site-wide operations, including production, logistics, and facilities.
• Strong knowledge of regulatory and compliance requirements in the manufacturing industry.
• Skills:
• Exceptional leadership, collaboration and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate cross-functional teams.
• Strategic thinker with a results-oriented mindset and a track record of driving operational excellence.
• Proficiency in operational software, data analysis tools, and quality management systems.
• Knowledge of industry regulations and quality standards in lab automation, life sciences, or a similar field.

Our commitment to you:

You will be collaborating with talented professionals in a motivated and driven team.

We offer a competitive salary package and comprehensive, valued benefits, including private medical insurance, a generous pension plan, and an annual discretionary bonus.

We embrace diversity and inclusivity, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, physical ability, or family status. We prioritise supporting our employees' diverse needs as we strive for excellence together.

If the above resonates with you, apply with an up-to-date CV and be a part of our journey to reshape the future of science.