Operations Plant Manager - West Sussex
A leading industrial manufacturer is seeking a motivated and experienced Operations Plant Manager to oversee production operations at a key UK site in West Sussex. This role is ideal for candidates from food, chemical, water, plastics, recycling, or oil and gas backgrounds.
This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for ensuring the site operates safely, efficiently, and sustainably. You will play a key part in shaping team culture, driving operational performance, and embedding continuous improvement practices across the plant.
Key Responsibilities
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Lead daily plant operations with a focus on safety, performance, and reliability
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Build and maintain a collaborative, results-driven team culture
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Oversee all aspects of production, maintenance, and resource management
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Champion SHEQ (Safety, Health, Environment and Quality) standards through active leadership, audits, and training
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Lead safety committees and ensure full compliance with all regulatory requirements
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Inspire and develop operational teams to reach their full potential through coaching and performance management
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Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, reduce downtime, and improve process control
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Take full ownership of site infrastructure, security, assets, and emergency systems
About You
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HNC or HND in a relevant discipline, or equivalent industry experience
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Proven leadership experience in a production or operations role within an industrial environment
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Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to influence at all levels
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Strong working knowledge of Health and Safety practices, including ISO standards
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Demonstrated success in leading teams, managing budgets, and delivering operational targets
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Proactive problem-solver with strong decision-making abilities under pressure
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NEBOSH General Certificate preferred, or willingness to work towards it