Job Description:

Operations Manager - CNC Precision Engineering

Leicester | £70,000 - £80,000 per annum | Permanent

A senior leadership opportunity for an experienced Operations Manager who knows CNC precision engineering and understands what it takes to run a successful manufacturing operation.

We are working with an established precision engineering manufacturer to recruit an experienced Operations Manager to lead and develop its CNC manufacturing operations.

Operating within the demanding aerospace sector, this is an opportunity for a commercially aware, technically strong leader to take real ownership of manufacturing performance, influence operational decisions and drive meaningful improvements.

We're looking for someone who can see the bigger picture without losing sight of what happens on the shop floor. Someone who understands precision machining, knows how to get the best from people and has the experience to turn operational challenges into measurable results.

The Opportunity

This is a key leadership position with responsibility for the performance, efficiency and continuous improvement of CNC manufacturing operations.

You'll be working with skilled engineering teams, overseeing complex manufacturing processes and ensuring the business consistently delivers on quality, productivity and customer expectations.

Importantly, this isn't simply about maintaining existing standards. It's about identifying opportunities, developing people and driving the operational improvements that make a genuine difference.

Key Responsibilities

• Take ownership of day-to-day CNC manufacturing operations, ensuring exceptional standards of quality, efficiency and delivery.
• Lead, motivate and develop production teams, creating a high-performing and accountable working environment.
• Oversee production planning, capacity, resources and manufacturing schedules.
• Drive improvements in machine utilisation, productivity, workflow and operational performance.
• Monitor manufacturing KPIs and implement strategies to improve performance and reduce costs.
• Work closely with engineering, quality and maintenance teams to optimise CNC machining processes.
• Champion Lean manufacturing, continuous improvement and operational best practices.
• Ensure manufacturing operations meet the exacting quality and safety requirements of the aerospace sector.
• Identify opportunities for process development, efficiency improvements and long-term operational success.

About You

We're looking for an established manufacturing leader who combines strong CNC engineering knowledge with the ability to manage people, processes and performance.

You'll bring:

• Proven experience as an Operations Manager, Manufacturing Manager, Production Manager or similar senior engineering leader.
• A strong technical background in CNC precision engineering, including milling and turning.
• Experience managing manufacturing operations within a precision engineering environment.
• A track record of improving productivity, operational efficiency and manufacturing performance.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to develop, motivate and influence teams.
• Experience with production planning, KPIs, Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement.
• A commercially focused approach, with a clear understanding of manufacturing costs, quality and delivery.
• The confidence to make decisions, solve problems and take accountability for operational results.

Experience within aerospace manufacturing would be particularly advantageous, although candidates from other high-precision engineering sectors will also be considered.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

For the right individual, this position offers more than the next step in management. It's an opportunity to apply your engineering knowledge and leadership experience in a technically demanding manufacturing environment where your contribution can make a genuine difference.

What Makes This Role Attractive?

• £70,000 - £80,000 salary, reflecting the seniority and responsibility of the position.
• A key leadership role with genuine operational influence.
• The opportunity to shape manufacturing performance and implement improvements.
• A technically challenging environment producing precision aerospace components.
• The chance to lead experienced engineering teams and develop manufacturing capability.
• An established manufacturing business where quality, technical expertise and operational excellence are central to its success.

If you're an experienced Operations Manager or senior manufacturing leader with a strong background in CNC precision engineering, this could be an excellent opportunity to put your experience to work in a role with real responsibility and influence.

Apply today for a confidential discussion about the opportunity.