Manufacturing Operations Manager Jobs

If you’re a natural leader with a passion for efficiency, strategy, and people management, Operations Manager jobs could be the ideal next step in your industrial career. At Stafffinders, we partner with leading employers across Glasgow, Edinburgh, and throughout Scotland, helping experienced professionals secure rewarding roles in manufacturing, logistics, production, and industrial management.

Operations Managers play a crucial role in driving the success of a business. They are responsible for overseeing daily operations, managing resources effectively, and implementing strategic initiatives that improve productivity, reduce costs, and enhance overall performance.

What Does an Operations Manager Do?

An Operations Manager is responsible for the end-to-end management of business operations, ensuring that processes run smoothly, efficiently, and within budget. In the industrial and logistics sectors, this can involve coordinating production schedules, managing supply chains, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. Key responsibilities include:

• Overseeing daily operations and managing a team of line managers and supervisors.

• Developing and implementing operational strategies to meet company goals.

• Monitoring budgets, costs, and resource allocation to maximise efficiency.

• Maintaining high standards of health and safety across all operations.

• Tracking and analysing performance through key performance indicators (KPIs).

• Managing the recruitment, training, and professional development of staff.

• Ensuring compliance with industry regulations and company policies.

• Building strong working relationships across departments and with external partners.

Operations Managers may be responsible for a single site or multiple facilities across Scotland or the UK, making this a dynamic and fast-paced role that demands both leadership and strategic thinking.

Skills and Experience for Operations Manager Jobs

To excel as an Operations Manager, you’ll need a strong blend of leadership, analytical, and communication skills, alongside a deep understanding of industrial processes and business operations.

Essential skills and qualities include:

• Proven management experience within an industrial, logistics, or manufacturing environment.

• Strong leadership and team development abilities.

• Excellent communication, literacy, and numeracy skills.

• Strategic thinking with the ability to make data-driven decisions.

• A sound understanding of health and safety compliance.

• Confidence in budgeting, forecasting, and cost control.

• A proactive, solution-focused approach to managing challenges.

Employers may also prefer candidates who hold a National Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) or equivalent qualifications, particularly within transport, logistics, or supply chain operations.

Qualifications and Career Development

Many Operations Managers begin their careers in supervisory or team leader positions before progressing into senior management. Formal education in relevant fields such as Business Management, Logistics, Industrial Operations, or Engineering can provide a strong foundation.

Common routes include:

• Gaining a degree or foundation qualification in Logistics, Transport, or Operations Management.

• Earning professional accreditations such as CILT (Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport) or ILM (Institute of Leadership and Management) certifications.

• Developing leadership and business management skills through in-house training or further study.

With experience, Operations Managers can advance into Senior Operations, Regional Manager, or Director-level positions, overseeing larger teams and multi-site operations across Scotland or internationally.