Head of Operations (Aerospace and Defence)

As Head of Operations, you will be responsible for the strategic and day-to-day leadership of manufacturing, supply chain, planning, and operational excellence across our aerospace and defence facilities. This is a senior leadership role with a critical focus on operational performance, cultural transformation, and customer satisfaction.

You will drive a culture of continuous improvement, lead high-performing teams, and ensure robust governance of safety, quality, delivery, and cost (SQDC) in a highly regulated environment.

• Lead end-to-end operations, including production, supply chain, planning, and facilities management.
• Translate strategic objectives into executable operational plans that meet performance, cost, and delivery goals.
• Champion a culture of safety, compliance, and operational discipline in accordance with aerospace and defence standards (e.g., AS9100, ISO9001, and regulatory requirements).
• Implement lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
• Drive cross-functional collaboration with engineering, programme management, quality, and commercial teams.
• Develop and mentor leadership teams across operations, building succession capability and high levels of engagement.
• Manage and optimise operational budgets, capital expenditure, and resource allocation.
• Represent operations in customer meetings, audits, and regulatory engagements.

• Proven senior leadership experience in manufacturing operations within the aerospace, defence, or similarly complex engineering environment.
• Strong track record of delivering operational excellence in high-precision, low-volume or complex assembly environments.
• Deep knowledge of aerospace quality standards, supply chain dynamics, and regulatory compliance.
• Demonstrated success in implementing lean manufacturing, operational excellence, and change leadership initiatives.
• Commercial acumen with experience managing budgets, CAPEX projects, and cost improvement programmes.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Apply now or contact Anthony Jeffers for a confidential conversation about the position.

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