Interim Operations Director

Parkinson Lee Executive Search are working exclusively on the appointment of an Interim Operations Director to lead the manufacturing division of a well-established organisation within the textiles sector.

This role requires an individual with a proven track record of leading textile or nonwovens manufacturing operations — ideally in bedding, upholstery, hygiene, filtration, or related markets. A strong understanding of fibre preparation, carding, needlepunch, thermal bonding, lamination, and finishing processes is essential.

RATE : £650 - £850 Per Day or £120,000 - £150,000 Contract Pro Rota

Purpose of the Role

The Operations Director will take full ownership of the division’s manufacturing operations, ensuring the delivery of high-quality products, on time, and within budget. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving operational excellence, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement, and embedding the highest standards of safety and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of the production process across the division.
• Deliver operational performance and profitability against agreed targets.
• Champion continuous improvement and embed modern manufacturing principles.
• Oversee budgets, costs, scheduling, and inventory control.
• Establish and maintain quality control standards.
• Inspire and motivate the operational team, driving capability, accountability, and performance.
• Ensure appropriate resource planning to manage seasonal and volume fluctuations.
• Support customer quality resolution and contribute to ISO and ethical audit compliance.
• Ensure a safe, compliant, and environmentally responsible working environment.
• Partner with senior leadership on performance goals and long-term strategy.

Experience & Qualifications

• 10+ years’ experience in senior production or operations leadership.
• Extensive experience in textiles / nonwovens manufacturing.
• Business Management qualification (or equivalent).
• Proven success in delivering efficiency, productivity, and cultural change.
• Strong financial, budgetary, and commercial acumen.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and influencing skills.
• Competence in modern manufacturing technology and data-driven decision making.

Personal Competencies

• Proactive, dynamic, and solution-oriented.
• Technically competent with a strong grasp of textile manufacturing processes.
• Effective communicator and team player.
• Assertive and commercially aware.
• Decisive leader with a track record of accountability and results.

How to Apply

For further details or to apply, please contact:

📧 c.walker@parkinsonlee.com