Factory Operations Manager - Harlow, Essex Salary up to £55,000

Are you an experienced manufacturing professional who thrives on improving processes, leading teams and keeping operations running smoothly?

We’re looking for a proactive Factory Operations Manager to oversee key operational functions within a busy, highly integrated manufacturing environment. This is an exciting opportunity to take ownership of customer service, production planning, ERP coordination and artwork, ensuring customer orders move seamlessly from initial order through to final despatch.

The Role:

• Lead and coordinate teams across Customer Service, Production Planning, ERP and Artwork.
• Manage customer projects from order receipt through to shipment.
• Oversee production schedules, manufacturing orders, job specifications and delivery timelines.
• Work closely with Commercial, Engineering, Estimating, Production and Despatch teams.
• Monitor performance to ensure orders are delivered on time and in full.
• Drive continuous improvement, operational efficiency and process optimisation.
• Resolve issues, manage competing priorities and maintain excellent customer service.

What We’re Looking For:

• Experience in manufacturing operations, project management or production planning.
• A strong understanding of manufacturing processes, ERP systems and order management.
• Proven ability to lead teams and coordinate multiple functions.
• Excellent organisational, communication and problem-solving skills.
• A data-driven mindset with a focus on performance and continuous improvement.

Desirable Experience:

• Advanced Excel, reporting or data analysis skills.
• ERP system troubleshooting and SQL/database knowledge.
• Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement methodologies.

What’s on Offer?

• Salary of up to £55,000.
• A varied, hands-on leadership role with real scope to make an impact.
• The opportunity to join an established international manufacturing environment.
• A collaborative working culture with opportunities for professional development.

Interested? If you're ready to take ownership of factory operations, lead a multifunctional team and drive improvements across a manufacturing business, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today!