Job Description

General Manager - Operations

Location: Enniskillen, Northern Ireland

Employment Type: Full-time | Permanent

We are currently hiring on behalf of a market-leading timber processing group with operations across Ireland and the UK. With over 900 employees and a strong legacy of innovation, this organisation has invested significantly in advanced technology and capital projects, positioning itself for continued growth.

The Enniskillen facility is one of the largest and most technically advanced sawmilling operations in the region, employing over 220 staff. We are seeking a highly capable

General Manager - Operations

to lead the site and drive operational excellence.

This is a senior leadership opportunity, ideal for an experienced operations or engineering leader with a strong background in high-volume manufacturing.

Role Overview

Reporting directly to the Head of Operations, the

General Manager

will hold full responsibility for Engineering, Production, Maintenance, Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality (SHEQ) functions on-site. This role demands a dynamic leader who can deliver strategic goals, champion innovation, and continuously improve operational performance.

Key Responsibilities

Engineering & Operations

Ensure high availability, performance, and reliability of all production equipment Drive automation and implement advanced technologies to boost efficiency Lead major capital projects--from feasibility to commissioning Monitor OEE metrics and spearhead engineering-level improvements Promote strong collaboration between production, maintenance, and engineering teams

Safety, Health, Environment & Quality (SHEQ)

Cultivate a safety-first culture with strict compliance across all SHEQ areas Share best practices across departments to maintain the highest operational standards

Production Management

Oversee performance vs. budget using robust KPIs Standardise operations and drive continuous improvement initiatives Collaborate with internal departments (e.g. forestry, sales) to align production with broader business objectives

Continuous Improvement & Capital Projects

Champion lean manufacturing and technology-driven process enhancements Lead planning and execution of strategic capex projects

Financial Oversight

Prepare and manage operational budgets Analyse reports and ensure procurement delivers best value

Leadership & People Development

Inspire and lead high-performing teams across the site Coach and mentor operational managers to support professional development Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement

Key Competencies

Strong technical background in engineering and manufacturing systems Experience leading CI or lean transformation programmes Financially savvy with solid analytical and budgetary skills Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building abilities Decisive and resilient leadership in a fast-paced manufacturing environment

Qualifications & Experience

Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Manufacturing Engineering (or related discipline) - Essential*
Minimum 5 years' experience leading large-scale operations in heavy industry Proven leadership in automation, capital projects, and innovation initiatives Lean/Six Sigma certification - Preferred*

Why Apply?

Lead one of the most advanced manufacturing sites in the UK/Ireland Be at the forefront of engineering excellence and strategic transformation Join a business with substantial ongoing investment and growth plans
If you're a results-driven leader with deep engineering expertise and a passion for operational excellence, this role offers an exciting platform to make a lasting impact.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 56,339.00-63,171.00 per year

Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person