Workshop Manager in Thame, Oxfordshire

Workshop / Operations Manager

Location: Oxfordshire
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced Workshop / Operations Manager to join a growing engineering business specialising in bespoke automated machinery and special-purpose equipment.

This is a hands-on leadership role where you will manage and support a skilled team of engineers, taking ownership of customer projects from initial sales handover through to manufacture, installation, commissioning and final sign-off.

Working closely with the sales team and company directors, you will oversee project planning, resource allocation, budgets and delivery schedules, ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget and to the highest quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and motivate the engineering team throughout project delivery.
• Manage customer orders from sales handover through to final sign-off.
• Coordinate project planning, workshop resources, manufacturing, installation and commissioning.
• Monitor project costs and maintain accurate updates within the CRM system.
• Develop project schedules and report progress to the Directors.
• Manage relationships with suppliers, subcontractors and external partners.
• Drive continuous improvement across workshop operations and processes.
• Ensure compliance with quality, health and safety requirements.

About You

• Previous experience as a Workshop Manager, Operations Manager or in a similar engineering leadership role.
• Strong electromechanical engineering knowledge, supported by relevant qualifications where possible.
• Experience with bespoke automated machinery, special-purpose equipment or machinery manufacturing.
• Familiarity with CAD software and PLC-controlled machinery.
• Strong project management, organisational and commercial skills.
• Confident communication skills, with the ability to work with engineers, customers, suppliers and senior management.
• A practical, hands-on leadership style with a focus on quality and continuous improvement.
• Full UK driving licence, unrestricted right to work in the UK and the ability to commute daily to Oxfordshire.

Salary & Benefits

• Competitive salary, dependent on experience.
• Enhanced company pension scheme.
• Private health insurance.
• Company life assurance.
• Free on-site parking.
• Long-term career development within a growing engineering business.
• Opportunity to influence operational performance and contribute to future business growth.

Apply Now

If you have a strong engineering background and the leadership skills to manage bespoke machinery projects from concept handover to delivery, we would like to hear from you.

Apply today with your CV to be considered for this opportunity.