Operations Manager

Are you an experienced Operations Manager? Do you have a strong Engineering / Manufacturing background and happy to be hands on? Are you interested in supporting the set up of a new Manufacturing facility in Connecticut? If so, we want to hear from you!

We are partnered with a Contract Manufacturing business who are looking to expand their UK operations in the USA! This is a unique opportunity to join at the very beginning, supporting a brand-new manufacturing site and shaping how it operates.

This business will be reflecting their UK holiday leave entitlement for candidates at their USA based facility which is a huge benefit for USA based candidates. This business are firm believers in work life balance and fair opportunity for all, with a culture of collaboration, empowerment and support.

All training will be carried out in the UK, so flexibility for travel is preferred.

Key Responsibilities:

• Project manage the end-to-end setup from initial planning through to full operational launch.
• Lead facility layout design, equipment selection, installation, commissioning, and validation activities.
• Coordinate with stakeholders, contractors, suppliers, and service providers to deliver the site on time and within budget.
• Execute a detailed site readiness plan to achieve full operational capability.
• Ensure all utilities, systems, and processes are fit for purpose and compliant with GMP and regulatory standards.
• Ensure production is carried out safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards.
• Establish standard operating procedures, work instructions, and controls aligned with UK operations.
• Monitor and optimise manufacturing performance.
• Work closely with Engineering to ensure equipment reliability, preventative maintenance, and continuous technical improvement.
• Support future automation, digitalisation, and capacity expansion initiatives.
• Ensure full compliance with ISO 22716 and all applicable US regulatory, safety, and environmental requirements.
• Build a high performing, engaged team with a strong focus on safety, quality, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Lead by example with a hands-on management style.
• Support production planning and scheduling to meet customer demand while maximising efficiency.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and structured problem-solving tools.

Experience and Qualifications:

• Proven experience in an operations or plant management role within a regulated manufacturing environment. (Cosmetics, Pharma, OTC or Food preferred).
• Demonstrated experience in setting up, commissioning, or significantly expanding a manufacturing facility.
• Strong engineering background with the ability to work hands-on with equipment, processes, and technical issues.
• Solid working knowledge of GMP standards, ideally ISO 22716.
• Experience leading and developing teams in a manufacturing setting.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple workstreams simultaneously.
• Practical, proactive, and solutions-focused mindset with a strong "can-do" attitude.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Flexibility to travel to the UK for the initial training phase.

Disclaimer:

This vacancy is being advertised by either Advanced Resource Managers Limited, Advanced Resource Managers IT Limited or Advanced Resource Managers Engineering Limited ("ARM"). ARM is a specialist talent acquisition and management consultancy. We provide technical contingency recruitment and a portfolio of more complex resource solutions. Our specialist recruitment divisions cover the entire technical arena, including some of the most economically and strategically important industries in the UK and the world today. We will never send your CV without your permission.