Job Description

Company description:

Wattrus Group

is a trusted, family-owned business based in Solihull, proudly recognised as one of the UK's leading manufacturers of premium soft furnishings and supply of floor coverings. With decades of experience and a reputation for excellence, we deliver a fully integrated service - from supply, manufacture and installation.

Specialising in high-quality curtains, blinds, cushions, and window treatments, we serve a diverse client base including national housebuilders, the hospitality sector, retirement living, care providers, and private homeowners.

Our in-house production facility features state-of-the-art machinery, enabling us to maintain full quality control and deliver outstanding results. Backed by a nationwide team of skilled installers, we ensure precision, consistency, and exceptional service across every project.

At Wattrus Group, quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction are at the heart of everything we do -- values that continue to fuel our growth and leadership in the industry.

Job description:

As we continue to grow, we're looking for an experienced, forward-thinking, and commercially astute Operations Manager to head up our Soft Furnishings Department. This is a unique opportunity to join a passionate, driven team.

As Operations Manager, you will take full ownership of the department's operations and strategy - spanning business development, client account management, in-house manufacturing, nationwide installations, and internal team leadership.

You will play a central role in shaping the future of the business, joining our Senior Management Team as a key decision maker and influencer. The ideal candidate will be both operationally hands-on and strategically minded, with the commercial acumen to drive performance and build strong, lasting relationships with clients and colleagues alike.

Your week might include

Leading strategic planning sessions with senior leadership Running operational meetings and mentoring middle managers Streamlining workflows and implementing new systems Visiting client sites to ensure delivery excellence Supporting the team through high-impact decision-making
At Wattrus Group, we don't stand still. We are committed to continuous improvement and welcome fresh perspectives that challenge the status quo. This role offers a real opportunity for someone who's motivated to grow, lead, and make a lasting impact in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee day-to-day operations of the department, including manufacturing, logistics, resource allocation, and project coordination. Ensure the consistent delivery of high-quality service to clients by managing departmental workflows and enforcing robust operational processes, supporting long-term client relationships. Cultivate strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and stakeholders to enhance customer satisfaction and drive business growth. Develop and implement strategies to optimise departmental performance across procurement, manufacturing, and installation, with a focus on service delivery and operational efficiency. Manage staff and systems, analysing operating practices and implement required changes to ensure success and efficiency. This will include employee HR, recruitment and training. Lead and mentor middle management, promoting a culture of ownership, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Monitor key departmental KPIs, analysing data to identify areas for improvement and presenting concise performance reports to Senior Management monthly. Take ownership of monthly P&L reporting, forecasting, and budgeting. Collaborate closely with Company Directors and the Senior Leadership Team to influence strategic decision-making, and to set and achieve both departmental and company-wide objectives aligned with the overall business strategy.

What We're Looking For:

Proven experience in operations management, preferably within a fast-paced, project-driven environment (experience in soft furnishings is beneficial but not essential) Experience in managing or overseeing manufacturing operations, with an understanding of production workflows, quality control, and process improvement Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to motivate, inspire, and manage cross-functional teams effectively A proactive problem-solver with excellent critical thinking skills and the ability to navigate complex challenges with confidence and efficiency Demonstrated experience in managing high-value key accounts, including direct engagement with Director-level clients and senior stakeholders Strong commercial acumen, with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and contributing to business strategy and growth Track record of implementing operational improvements, streamlining processes, and driving measurable efficiency gains Comfortable working at both strategic and hands-on levels -- able to lead high-level planning while staying close to the detail when required Experience with change management, organisational development, or scaling operations during periods of growth

Salary and Benefits

Salary dependant on experience, however you can expect to earn between 45,000.00 and 55,000.00

Thirty-two days (full time equivalent) holiday (including bank and public holidays)

Full time, permanent position

Website

Our website can be viewed at www.wattrus.com

Data Compliance

For more information on how we collect your data, how we process your data, how we share your data and how we protect your data during the recruitment process please contact us.

We are an Equal Opportunities Employer

No Agencies please

If you require further details on roles and responsibilities, please email recruitment@wattrus.com

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 45,000.00-55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Employee discount Free parking On-site parking Sick pay
Education:

A-Level or equivalent (preferred)
Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person