Job Title

Operation Manager

Location

Cross Lane, Bradford

About Us

Gardner Denver Transport provides equipment which efficiently transfers bulk material from road tankers and other vehicles. As global requirements advanced, we started developing into wider applications and we now produce equipment for alternative markets including specialised transport, on-board power systems for operating/powering other equipment, and bespoke electric compressor packages for e-mobility vehicles.

Within our Bradford facility we design, machine, assembly and install our entire Bulk Powder and Liquid Compressor range for Road Transport Vehicles. Providing our customers with the whole product life cycle is number one for us and with our mobile service engineers we offer from concept design, manufacture, installation and aftermarket support.

Job Summary

The Operations Manager is responsible for the execution and delivery of the site-level Operational Strategy, working closely with the Plant Manager to ensure operational excellence. This role oversees Production Management, Buyers/Procurement, and cross-functional shop-floor operations. The Operations Manager is accountable for output, on‑time delivery, inventory control, labour efficiency, cost performance versus AOP, and continuous improvement initiatives.

This position manages a diverse operational environment—including a vehicle fitting shop, welding & fabrication shop, machine shop, assembly, and testing areas—leading a workforce of +70 employees.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead daily operations and ensure alignment with the site production plan.

• Achieve output, on‑time delivery, and inventory performance targets.

• Manage costs and drive productivity and labour efficiency.

• Lead and develop Production Managers, Team Leaders, and Buyers.

• Drive Lean, 5S, and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Ensure full compliance with HSE and quality standards.

Skills & Experience Required Essential: Operations management experience in manufacturing/engineering, leadership of 50+ teams, strong planning and inventory knowledge, proven delivery of output/OTD/costs, and experience improving labour and process efficiency.

Desirable: Background in machining, fabrication, assembly, or vehicle fitting; Lean experience; ERP/MRP knowledge.

Personal Attributes

Strong communicator, hands‑on, organised, results‑focused, and resilient in a fast‑paced environment.

What we Offer

• Company Pension Contribution

• Westfield Health Medical Cover

• 25 Days Holiday + 8 Bank Holidays (Option to purchase up to 5 days’ pro rata for part time)

• Free parking

• Death in Service Benefit of 4x salary

• Cycle Scheme

• Employee Assistance Programme

• Refer a Friend Scheme

• Electric Car Scheme (after probation period)

• 10% of salary in shares after 1 year of employment