Operations Manager
Location: Bolton, Greater Manchester
Reporting to: Managing Director
Salary: Competitive + Performance Bonus
About WPL UK Ltd
WPL UK Ltd is a specialist designer, manufacturer and installer of architectural metalwork systems including louvres, brise soleil, decorative rainscreen panels, acoustic enclosures, door systems and bespoke fabricated solutions. We work with leading contractors, architects and consultants across the UK, delivering projects from design through to installation.
Role Overview
The Operations Manager will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the business, ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget and to the highest quality standards. The role covers manufacturing, procurement, logistics, project delivery, installation and team management.
The successful candidate will be a hands-on leader capable of coordinating multiple departments while driving efficiency, accountability and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
Operations & Project Delivery
- Oversee all operational activities from order receipt through to project completion.
- Manage project programmes and ensure contractual delivery dates are achieved.
- Coordinate design, procurement, fabrication and installation activities.
- Monitor project progress and resolve operational issues.
- Chair internal project review meetings.
- Ensure effective communication between office, workshop and site teams.
Manufacturing & Production
- Manage fabrication workshop activities.
- Ensure production schedules are achieved.
- Monitor labour utilisation and productivity.
- Implement continuous improvement initiatives.
- Ensure quality standards are maintained throughout manufacture.
Procurement & Supply Chain
- Manage procurement of materials and subcontract services.
- Maintain relationships with suppliers.
- Ensure materials are ordered in line with project programmes.
- Control stock levels and minimise waste.
Installation & Logistics
- Coordinate site installation teams.
- Plan deliveries and logistics.
- Ensure site activities are carried out safely and efficiently.
- Manage subcontract installation teams where required.
Commercial Support
- Assist with project costing and resource planning.
- Monitor project profitability.
- Support contract administration and change management.
- Identify risks affecting programme, cost or quality.
Health, Safety & Compliance
- Maintain compliance with ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001.
- Ensure all workshop and site activities comply with health and safety legislation.
- Promote a strong safety culture throughout the business.
- Monitor training requirements and competency levels.
Team Leadership
- Lead and develop workshop, project and installation personnel.
- Conduct performance reviews.
- Establish clear responsibilities and accountability.
- Support recruitment and staff development.
Experience Required
Essential
- Operations management experience within manufacturing, construction or architectural metalwork.
- Strong organisational and planning skills.
- Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously.
- Excellent leadership and communication skills.
- Understanding of fabrication and installation processes.
- Commercial awareness and problem-solving ability.
Desirable
- Experience with louvres, cladding, facades, architectural metalwork or specialist subcontracting.
- Knowledge of JCT contracts.
- Familiarity with AutoCAD and manufacturing drawings.
- NEBOSH or IOSH qualification.
- Experience managing ISO systems.
Key Performance Indicators
- On-time project delivery.
- Workshop productivity.
- Gross margin performance.
- Health & Safety compliance.
- Customer satisfaction.
- Reduction in defects and rework.
- Employee retention and engagement.
Personal Attributes
- Strong leader.
- Practical and commercially minded.
- Decisive and accountable.
- Excellent communicator.
- Organised and detail-focused.
- Able to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
Pay: £80,000.00-£100,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Cycle to work scheme
- On-site parking
- Private medical insurance
Work Location: In person
