Operations Manager (245jc) – South Coast – up to £80k + Benefits

My client, who is a key player in targeted marine services, shipbuilding and equipment production sector, who have a substantial pedigree behind them are now seeking to recruit a dynamic Operations Manager to help them flourish, develop and grow going forwards as they have some exciting plans in place.

DUE TO THE NATURE OF THIS RECRUITMENT CONSULTANCY, WE ARE ONLY ABLE TO REPRESENT INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE EX MILITARY.

They are currently tuning over £6 million per year and are looking to grow the company organically by adding additional services and solutions while keeping the team of 60 personnel fully employed going forwards, on the ship building side they tend to operate in the 20-to-24-meter sector.

You will be reporting to the Board of Directors, and you will be responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating operational activities, with a focus on optimizing both workforce productivity and business performance.

In this role, you will need a strong leadership background, and you can effectively manage a skilled workforce while balancing the demands of workshop operations with high-level boardroom presentations. In addition, you will possess extensive knowledge of financial management, to drive sustainable growth and operational excellence.

This is a critical leadership role within the company, responsible for overseeing more than 4 direct reports and managing all facets of the business, from negotiating terms to ensuring the timely and on-budget delivery of builds.

Key responsibilities include ensuring the safety, productivity, maintenance, and growth of the shipyard while upholding the highest professional standards. The role also requires a sharp focus on budget management, staff development, and client satisfaction, driving excellence in all aspects of operations.

Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Experienced and proven leader with the ability to engage and empower a skilled workforce.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Track record of developing and implementing strategic direction for the company.
• Extensive operational experience, particularly in shipbuilding or related industries.
• Strong expertise in balance sheet and budget management.
• Skilled in boardroom presentations and executive-level communication.
• Strong commitment to safety and regulatory compliance.
• Focused on continuous improvement, optimizing build hours, reducing schedule cycles, and ensuring first-time quality execution.

Experience Required

• 5+ years of operational management experience
• 5+ years of proven leadership in managing teams
• Strong experience in business finance management
• Expertise in strategic planning and business analysis
• Excellent communication and conflict resolution skills
• Highly organized with strong motivation and drive
• Outstanding interpersonal skills with the ability to inspire and foster strong relationships
• Skilled in managing change effectively and working efficiently in fast-paced environments

The ideal candidate for this role would probably be an individual who has some commercial experience since leaving the forces and you would ideally have a strong maritime background from and engineering discipline from the Royal Navy or similar.

In return they are offering an excellent starting salary and benefits package that includes 25 days + Bank Holidays, company pension and benefits scheme, however this is currently under review.

For more information, please contact Jean-Claude Hedouin at Ex-Mil Recruitment Ltd on (phone number removed)