Head of Operations

The Head of Operations, FMCG will oversee the end-to-end operations of the business, including production, supply chain management, logistics, and procurement. This role will focus on ensuring operational efficiency, driving cost-saving initiatives, and supporting the business’s growth, both in the UK and internationally. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing operational strategies that align with the company’s overall goals while ensuring regulatory compliance and maintaining the highest quality standards.

The Head of Operations, FMCG will play a key role in the senior management team and work closely with cross-functional departments to support business expansion. This role requires an experienced operations leader with a track record of managing complex operations and leading teams in a fast-paced environment.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

Strategic Operations Leadership:

Oversee production operations in collaboration with the Production Manager and Team Lead to ensure cost efficiency and smooth workflow.
Lead and support the development of initiatives to improve the processes across operations
Contribute to and execute operational strategies to ensure cost-efficiency and scalability in alignment with the company’s growth and overall business strategy.

Supply Chain and Logistics Management:

Develop and manage the UK supply chain strategy, optimizing logistics from sourcing to delivery.
Ensure compliance with UK and EU regulations and lead logistics partners to improve distribution efficiency.

Procurement and Supplier Management:

Lead supplier relationship management in partnership with key stakeholders, overseeing strategic procurement negotiations and sourcing to support long-term business goals.
Drive cost-saving initiatives and enhance procurement processes while working with internal teams to align procurement strategies with business growth and sustainability goals.

Operational Excellence and Continuous Improvement:

Partner with the Production Manager and Team Leaders to implement lean production systems and drive ongoing operational improvements using performance metrics.
Set and monitor KPIs for production, supply chain, and procurement ensuring operational efficiency and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Production Planning and Inventory Control:

Oversee production planning and collaborate with the Production Manager to ensure efficient scheduling and inventory control that meets demand forecasts.
Lead seasonal production planning efforts in partnership with key team members to ensure timely and cost-effective product delivery.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

Collaborate closely with Product Development, Retail, Sales, and other internal teams to ensure operations are aligned with broader business objectives.
Lead strategic and operational meetings to drive key business decisions.

Compliance and Quality Assurance:

Ensure all operations meet BRCGS, health, and safety standards, supporting audits and maintaining the highest quality of raw and finished goods.

Team Leadership:

Lead, coach, and develop the operations team, working with the Production Manager & Team Leaders to foster a high-performance culture.
Support recruitment, training, and staff development initiatives ensuring team capabilities align with business needs.

Strategic Reporting:

Prepare regular reports on operational performance, focusing on production efficiency, supply chain metrics, and procurement costs, to support decision-making.
Work with cross-functional leaders to support strategic decisions through detailed operational analyses and performance reviews.

UK Market Expansion:

Lead the UK market expansion by setting up supply chain infrastructure and ensuring regulatory compliance.
Proactively manage risks and disruptions as the company grows in new markets, supporting business continuity.

HACCP and Safety Standards:

Contribute to HACCP development through working with our Quality team and ensure all operations comply with health and safety regulations.

Essential Skills & Qualifications:

Senior Operations Experience: 7-10 years in senior operations roles, ideally with direct responsibility for daily operations in FMCG or food production.
Strategic Leadership: Proven ability to execute operational strategies that drive efficiency and scalability.
UK Supply Chain & Multiple Retailer Logistics Expertise: Essential experience in managing UK logistics, including procurement, distribution, and supply chain for multiple retailers.
Lean Manufacturing & Financial Acumen: Experience implementing lean methodologies to optimize operations and managing budgets to drive cost-efficiency.
Regulatory Compliance: Strong knowledge of BRCGS or equivalent, food safety, health & safety standards, and experience managing audits.
Team Leadership: Skilled in coaching and developing high-performing teams.
IT Proficiency: Experienced with ERP systems, stock management software, and proficient in Microsoft Office/Google Suite.
UK/EU Market Knowledge: Familiar with UK/EU regulations, especially in food production and customs.
Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills and decision-making ability in dynamic environments.

Desirable Skills & Qualifications:

Experience with BRCGS or similar audits.
Proven success in expanding operations into new markets.
Certifications in Lean Six Sigma or similar operational methodologies.
Experience driving sustainability initiatives in operations.
Project management skills for large-scale systems/process implementation.
Master’s degree in Business, Operations, or related fields.

At Clark, we stand as more than just a Recruitment Consultancy; we're a beacon of opportunity and inclusivity. Our commitment to fostering a culture of equality and providing reasonable accommodations is unwavering. Should you require us to make any reasonable accommodations during your job search journey then please let us know.

Why Choose Clark as your Trusted Recruitment Partner?

Inclusive Culture: We celebrate diversity and provide equal opportunities for all.
Supportive Experienced Recruiters: Finding the right position for the right person matters to us. We're here to help you source the best career opportunity.
Personalised Assistance: From start to finish, we're committed to making your job search journey as smooth as possible.

Ready to Begin? Apply now.
INDCLA