Operations Manager in Hutton, Essex
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About the Opportunity
Contek Recruitment are working on behalf of a well-established, family-owned manufacturing business based in Essex.
With decades of industry experience, our client specialises in bespoke and repeat manufacturing, supported by in-house tooling and a loyal customer base. The business also undertakes larger, special-purpose projects and supplies to both UK and international markets.
Due to planned retirement, the owners are seeking an ambitious and capable individual to join the business with a clear pathway to step into a General Manager position and ultimately run the company.
The Role
This is a unique opportunity offering far more than a traditional Operations Manager position.
You will initially take responsibility for the day-to-day running of the operation, with a structured transition into full leadership of the business.
Key Responsibilities
* Oversee daily operations across production, tooling, and dispatch
* Manage workflow for bespoke and repeat manufacturing orders
* Coordinate production planning, including larger special-purpose machinery projects
* Ensure delivery targets and quality standards are consistently met
* Liaise with customers on technical specifications and requirements
* Support export orders and logistics coordination
* Lead, motivate, and develop a skilled manufacturing team
* Identify and implement process improvements
About You
Essential:
* Proven experience in a manufacturing or engineering environment
* Strong operational leadership and organisational skills
* Ability to manage both people and production processes
* Commercial awareness and an interest in long-term business leadership
Desirable:
* Toolmaking background or apprenticeship highly advantageous
* Experience within bespoke or low-volume manufacturing environments
* Knowledge of machining and production planning
* Exposure to export or international supply
The Opportunity
* Clear and genuine succession plan to General Manager
* Opportunity to take over the running of a well-established, profitable business
* Work closely with the current owners during a structured handover
* Long-term career stability with significant leadership responsibility
* A varied role combining hands-on operations, leadership, and strategic input
Who This Would Suit
* An experienced Operations Manager ready to step up
* A Production Manager or Senior Engineer seeking leadership progression
* An entrepreneurial individual interested in eventually running a business
If you are interested in applying for this job please press the Apply Button and follow the application process. Energy Jobline wishes you the very best of luck in your next career move.
- Location:
- Brentwood
- Job Type:
- FullTime
- Category:
- Manager, Operations Manager, Management, Operations
