Job Description

About the role

At Connect Design, we specialise in creating accessible educational and business resources, offering high-quality braille, large print, audio, and easy-read solutions. With over 35 years of expertise, we empower everyone to access vital information.

Due to continued expansion, we are seeking an Operations Manager to oversee the day-to-day running of our studio and support the wider management team in delivering a high-performing, collaborative, and efficient working environment.

This is a pivotal new role in the business -- ideal for someone experienced in operations or studio management who thrives in a dynamic SME setting and wants to contribute to meaningful, impactful work.

What you'll do:

Oversee day-to-day studio operations and workflow traffic management. Forecast and schedule workloads, adapting to changing project demands and making timely decisions to maintain seamless production, ensuring proposed targets and SLAs are achievable and delivered within agreed timeframes Lead and support departmental leads across creative and administrative teams, ensuring effective resourcing, operational coordination, and delivery against team targets and KPI's. Work closely with teams to build a detailed understanding of the products and services handled by each department to support effective planning and decision-making. Serve as the day-to-day operational contact for internal and external stakeholders, ensuring clear communication, managed expectations, and timely, high-quality project delivery. Champion a customer-centric approach by overseeing client onboarding and maintaining high standards of service whilst building strong relationships with new and existing clients. Ensure studio activities consistently meet agreed quality standards, SLAs, KPIs, and internal quality and security requirements. Support the implementation of production systems, studio processes, and continuous improvement initiatives by working with the senior management team to identify opportunities for efficiency and improvement. Analyse operational data and prepare reports to support strategic planning and informed decision-making. Identify and promptly escalate operational risks or issues to the Operations Director. Promote and maintain a positive, collaborative culture that aligns with company values.

What we are looking for:

At least 3 years management experience in operations, studio, or project management.

Proven ability to manage and support cross-functional teams and departmental managers.

Strong organisational, planning, and forecasting skills with confidence to make operational decisions independently.

Proficient in data analysis and report preparation to support informed decision-making.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with an eye for detail and good command of the English language.

Proactive, positive, and adaptable, able to manage varying demands of a fast-paced, deadline-driven SME.

A natural problem solver with a strong sense of urgency and a calm, solution-focused mindset.

Commercially minded, excels at building strong client relationships and driving service excellence to support business growth and retention.

Experience with scheduling or project management software such as Synergist, Trello or similar is desirable but not essential.

An understanding of quality standards and working in quality-controlled environments is a plus.

Education:

Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification required.

GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics at grade C/4 or above.

Additional professional qualifications or training in operations or management is a plus.

What we offer:

A locally based onsite role, just 1 mile from Nantwich town centre.

A supportive and collaborative team environment.

Career development opportunities within a growing organisation.

Opportunities to make a difference through accessible design and production.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 36,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension On-site parking
Education:

Bachelor's (required)
Experience:

management: 2 years (required)
Work Location: In person