Operations Director at Gardner Aerospace

Gardner Aerospace is seeking an experienced and driven Operations Director to join their busy Derby site. This is a key leadership role responsible for providing both strategic direction and operational leadership across multiple site functions, ensuring performance, efficiency, and continuous improvement throughout the business.

This opportunity could be offered on either an interim or permanent basis, depending on the successful candidate.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and support operational functions across the Derby site to achieve business objectives and performance targets

• Drive operational excellence through effective use of KPIs, continuous improvement initiatives, and performance management

• Provide strong leadership and direction to teams across the business

• Develop and implement action plans to improve productivity, quality, and efficiency

• Foster a positive, collaborative, and high-performing culture

• Ensure compliance with relevant industry legislation, standards, and guidelines

• Support business growth and operational change within a fast-paced manufacturing environment

• Manage multiple priorities while maintaining focus on delivery and customer expectations

Skills & Experience Required

• Proven leadership experience with excellent interpersonal and organisational skills

• Outstanding communication skills with the ability to engage effectively at all levels of the business

• Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and coaching capabilities

• Demonstrated ability to lead and drive change through data, results, and KPIs

• Excellent planning, prioritisation, and operational management skills

• In-depth understanding of diverse business functions and operational principles

• Experience within the aerospace industry at Operations Manager level or above is advantageous

• Strong knowledge of relevant industry legislation and manufacturing standards

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced production environment with changing priorities

What They’re Looking For

They are looking for a proactive and commercially minded leader who can inspire teams, drive performance, and contribute to the continued success of their Derby operation.