Operations & Engineering Manager

About the Role

Hydraulic System Products Ltd, a privately owned manufacturer of specialist fluid power products in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, is searching for a commercially focused engineering leader to join as Operations & Engineering Manager. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, this senior role oversees manufacturing, engineering, quality assurance, and product development operations. This position blends strategic leadership with hands-on management to enhance operational performance, continuous improvement, technical excellence, and workforce development.

Responsibilities

• Lead manufacturing operations to meet targets in productivity, quality, delivery, and cost-efficiency.
• Implement Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives to optimize processes.
• Identify opportunities to boost operational efficiency, capacity, and profitability.
• Use key performance indicators and reporting systems to monitor manufacturing operations.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Provide technical leadership for engineering design and product development efforts.
• Guide development of innovative fluid power products from concept to commercialization.
• Maintain rigorous design, testing, validation, and documentation processes.
• Collaborate with customers and suppliers on technical issues as needed.
• Promote a quality-oriented culture supported by continuous improvement and root cause analysis.
• Lead and develop teams across manufacturing and engineering, cultivating accountability and collaboration.
• Contribute to strategic planning and business growth initiatives in partnership with senior leadership.

Candidate Profile

• Proven engineering leadership experience in manufacturing and product design within mechanical, hydraulic, fluid power, or related sectors.
• Career progression through a technical apprenticeship into engineering and leadership roles.
• Engineering degree or equivalent qualification preferred but not mandatory.
• Track record of managing teams and driving operational enhancements successfully.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with a proactive, hands-on management style.
• Strong commercial understanding and eagerness to support overall business success.

Compensation and Career Opportunities

• Senior leadership role in a respected engineering firm with substantial autonomy.
• Clear progression pathway to board-level directorship.
• Potential involvement in profit-sharing and possible equity ownership.
• Influence over the company's manufacturing and engineering strategies.

Additional Information

This position is based onsite at Hydraulic System Products Limited, Wakefield, West Yorkshire (WF2 7AL). Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their CV directly for consideration. Agencies are requested not to apply.