Operations Manager – Manufacturing Excellence | Biopharma & Dairy Sectors
Location: Cork
Industry: Manufacturing / Engineering
Type: Full-Time, Permanent
About the Company
With over three decades of success behind them, this forward-thinking design and manufacturing company continues to be a trusted supplier to the biopharma and dairy industries. Known for their innovation and strong internal culture, they offer employees real growth potential, a collaborative working environment, and long-term career development.
The Opportunity
We’re seeking an experienced and flexible Operations/Manufacturing Manager to lead manufacturing operations and drive performance across productivity, quality, and delivery across my client’s site. This is a hands-on leadership role that will suit someone with a strong background in resource planning, lean methodologies, and a passion for continuous improvement.
You’ll take charge of ensuring production meets customer expectations while pushing for cost-efficiency, process optimisation, and a high-performing, engaged workforce.
Key Responsibilities:
- Oversee daily production operations and lead the manufacturing team to hit quality, efficiency, and delivery goals.
- Manage a team of 35-40 including three team leads with the rest of the team comprising of the mechanical & electrical tradespeople along with the material handling team.
- Develop and implement production plans, allocating resources efficiently to meet demand.
- Drive continuous improvement through lean practices and performance metrics.
- Partner closely with the Quality team to uphold high standards and resolve production issues proactively.
- Support cross-functional collaboration between engineering, planning, and quality teams.
- Coach, develop and empower staff—leading everything from performance reviews to recruitment and training.
- Foster a positive team environment that aligns with company values and encourages accountability and excellence.
What You’ll Bring:
3–5 years of experience managing teams in a mechanical/engineering, pharma, steel, or components manufacturing environments
Proven ability to lead, coach and motivate in a busy production-focused setting.
Strong background in capacity planning (people & machinery).
Solid understanding of lean manufacturing principles with the ability to spot continuous improvement opportunities.
Excellent communication and leadership skills—with a practical, solutions-oriented mindset.
Confident with KPIs, production metrics, and driving operational performance.
What’s in it for You:
A generous salary tailored to your experience
Excellent benefits including pension, life assurance, discretionary bonus healthcare and educational assistance
Supportive culture with real opportunities to progress
The chance to make a meaningful impact in a business supplying a range of blue-chip biopharma & dairy manufacturing companies.
Ready to step into a leadership role where your ideas and input matter?
Apply today and become a key player in this company’s ongoing success story.
