Operations Manager - #2184685

Job Purpose

The Production Manager is responsible for the efficient day-to-day management of the Operations Department, ensuring all Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) are prepared, inspected and delivered to the highest standards of quality, safety and customer satisfaction. The role oversees Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI), workshop operations, transport planning, inventory coordination and Health & Safety compliance while leading a small operations team.

Key Responsibilities

Operations Management

• Manage the daily operations of the workshop and PDI department.
• Plan and prioritise workload to ensure machines are prepared and delivered on schedule.
• Monitor operational performance and identify opportunities to improve efficiency and productivity.
• Ensure departmental KPIs are achieved, including productivity, quality and delivery targets.
• Develop and maintain effective operational procedures and working practices.

Supervise Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI)

• Ensure all MEWPs, including Boom Lifts, Scissor Lifts, Cherry Pickers and other powered access equipment, are inspected, assembled, tested and prepared in accordance with manufacturer specifications.
• Verify all machines meet quality standards before customer delivery.
• Ensure inspection records, service documentation and machine history are accurately completed and maintained.
• Coordinate the rectification of any defects identified during PDI.

Logistics Management

• Plan and coordinate inbound deliveries from ports, manufacturers and suppliers.
• Organise outbound transport for customer deliveries and dealer transfers throughout the UK.
• Liaise with transport companies to ensure cost-effective and timely deliveries.
• Optimise transport schedules to maximise vehicle utilisation and minimise costs.
• Ensure all transport documentation is completed accurately.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Promote a positive Health & Safety culture throughout the company.
• Ensure compliance with all Health & Safety legislation, company policies and risk assessments.
• Conduct workplace inspections and identify opportunities to improve safety standards.
• Investigate accidents, incidents and near misses, implementing corrective actions where required.
• Ensure appropriate PPE is used and safe working practices are maintained at all times.

Inventory & Equipment Management

• Monitor stock levels of parts, consumables and workshop equipment.
• Ensure all inbound and outbound machines are accurately recorded in the ERP/inventory management system.
• Maintain all stock machines in good working condition, including routine battery charging, ex-demo machine maintenance and completion of manufacturer Service Bulletins.
• Conduct regular spare parts stock counts, reconcile inventory discrepancies and maintain accurate stock records.

Leadership/Team management

• Lead, supervise and support a team comprising one PDI Technician and one Workshop Foreman, with the potential for a Parts Coordinator to report into the role in the future.
• Allocate daily tasks and monitor work quality and productivity.
• Conduct regular one-to-one meetings and performance reviews.
• Coach, train and develop team members to improve technical skills and performance.
• Manage attendance, performance and disciplinary matters in line with company policies.

Quality & Continuous Improvement

• Monitor product quality and implement corrective actions where necessary.
• Identify opportunities to improve operational processes and reduce waste.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives across the Operations Department.
• Maintain high housekeeping standards within the workshop and yard.

Communication

• Work closely with Sales, Service, Parts and Administration teams to ensure smooth operational planning.
• Provide regular operational updates to senior management.
• Build effective working relationships with suppliers, transport providers and customers where appropriate.

Person Specification Essential

• Previous management or supervisory experience within an operations, workshop or production environment.
• Experience managing and motivating a small team.
• Experience within the Powered Access, MEWP, Plant Machinery, Construction Equipment or Heavy Equipment industry.
• Strong knowledge of Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) processes.
• Experience coordinating transport and logistics operations.
• Good understanding of Health & Safety legislation and safe working practices.
• Excellent planning, organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and leadership abilities.
• IPAF qualification.
• Competent in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Outlook.
• LOLER and PUWER knowledge.
• Mechanical or electrical engineering background.
• Full UK Driving Licence.