LOCATION : Hybrid role – 2-3 days a week in East London Office + UK TravelPACKAGE : To £100,000 + Bonus + Company Car + BenefitsREFERENCE : 1M26012KEYWORDS : Operations, Management, Leadership, Director, Plant Hire, Groundworks, Ground Force, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, PerformanceTHE COMPANYA well-established, privately owned industrial services business is seeking an experienced Operations Director to lead a national operational estate comprising depots across the UK and various manufacturing operations.This is a senior leadership role with full responsibility for operational performance, safety, relevant team members, and continuous improvement across a complex, asset-heavy environment.THE ROLEReporting directly to the Managing Director, you will take ownership of end-to-end operations, ensuring consistent standards, strong leadership, and scalable performance across all sites.You will be highly visible across the business, spending time in depots and manufacturing facilities while working closely with the senior leadership team to deliver operational strategy.This role requires a proven background in both plant hire (or adjacent industries) and manufacturing. Candidates without experience in these sectors will not be considered.You will be responsible for :Lead and develop multi-site operational teams across a national depot networkDrive operational excellence across plant hire depots and manufacturing operationsEnsure consistent standards of safety, quality, service, and performance nationwideOversee asset utilisation, logistics, capacity planning, and workflow efficiencyChampion health & safety compliance and a strong safety-first cultureDeliver continuous improvement, cost control, and operational standardisationUse KPIs and data to drive accountability and informed decision-makingSupport business growth, depot integration, and operational change initiativesTHE PERSONIn order to succeed in this role, it is essential that you have the following background, skills and experience :Senior operational leadership experience within plant hire and manufacturing environmentsProven track record managing multi-site, geographically dispersed operationsStrong understanding of asset-heavy businesses, equipment lifecycle management, and manufacturing processesExtensive experience leading large operational teams and site leadersDeep knowledge of health & safety best practice within industrial settingsWillingness to travel regularly across the UKPersonal AttributesHands-on, commercially minded, and operationally focusedCredible, calm leader able to influence at all levelsComfortable operating in fast-paced, complex environmentsStrong communicator with a practical, solutions-led approachHigh standards around safety, people, and performanceThis role will suit a senior operator from the plant hire sector who also brings strong manufacturing experience and enjoys being close to the operation rather than operating purely at board level. #J-18808-Ljbffr