Job Description

About Us

We are part of the Asteria Group, a leading European packaging and label specialist with 35 manufacturing sites across Europe. Our Wolverhampton operation comprises two dedicated sites: one specialising in label production and the other in flexible packaging.

With a strong reputation for quality and innovation, we are now entering an exciting phase of growth, driven by increased demand, new client wins, and continued investment in both people and technology.

We are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead day-to-day operations across both sites and play a pivotal role in driving performance, scalability, and continuous improvement.

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Role Overview

The Operations Manager will lead all aspects of manufacturing operations across the two Wolverhampton sites. Reporting directly to the site's Managing Director, you will manage a team of 6 functional leads and a broader team of approximately 50 manufacturing staff.

This office-based role requires a hands-on leader with a background in labels, flexible packaging, or related printing sectors, and someone ready to grow with the business as we scale both Label and Flexible packaging sites.

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Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

Oversee and coordinate production, planning, warehousing, logistics, maintenance, and quality across two manufacturing sites (labels and flexible packaging). Ensure consistent, on-time delivery while maintaining quality, efficiency, and safety. Drive productivity improvements, reduce waste, and manage costs.
Team Leadership & Development

Lead and coach a team of 6 direct reports (including Production, QA, Maintenance, Logistics). Develop skills and succession plans to support a high-performing operations team. Promote a culture of ownership, accountability, and collaboration.
Strategic & Continuous Improvement

Support the Managing Director in executing strategic growth plans. Implement lean manufacturing, continuous improvement initiatives all under Asteria OPEX banner. Monitor and report on KPIs - OEE, team performance, downtime, and OTIF performance.
Production & Technical Oversight

Ensure all processes meet industry and customer standards for quality and safety. Collaborate with the technical team on trials, new product introductions, and process improvements. Participate in CAPEX planning and technology upgrades.
Health, Safety & Compliance

Champion a safe and compliant working environment. Maintain compliance with site-specific policies, BRCGS/ISO standards, and Asteria Group requirements.
Collaboration & Reporting

Act as the key operational contact for internal departments including Sales, Supply Chain, and Finance. Share operational best practices with other Asteria Group sites where applicable.
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Candidate Profile

Essential:

Proven experience in an operational leadership role within labels, flexible packaging, or print manufacturing. Strong people management and team-building capabilities. Track record of implementing process and performance improvements in a production environment. Knowledge of modern manufacturing techniques and quality systems. Excellent organisational, communication, and leadership skills.
Desirable:

Experience in a multi-site or group structure. Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and production planning tools. Understanding of BRCGS, ISO9001, or similar industry standards. Prior exposure to Lean, Kaizen, or Six Sigma methodologies.
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What We Offer

A strategic leadership role in a growing and ambitious business. Part of the Asteria Group, with the backing of a pan-European network. Clear progression pathway as the business expands. Office-based role with regular interaction across both local sites. Competitive salary and benefits package. Personal and professional development support.
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 45,000.00-60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company events Company pension Cycle to work scheme Free parking On-site parking
Ability to commute/relocate:

Wolverhampton WV11 3BF: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Language:

English (required)
Location:

Wolverhampton WV11 3BF (preferred)
Willingness to travel:

25% (preferred)
Work Location: In person

Reference ID: CSOPPS
Expected start date: 01/09/2025