Operations Shift manager

Ready to take the lead in a fast-paced manufacturing environment?

We’re looking for an experienced Operations Shift Manager to join our quality team, based onsite at a major OEM site in Woking, with travel to Oxford 1–2 times per week. If you're confident managing people, solving problems, and driving process excellence, this role offers real impact and long-term growth.

Benefits include:

• £14.50 – £16.00 per hour (DOE)

• 28 days holiday (incl. Bank Holidays)

• Free on-site parking

• Employer pension contribution

• Strong development and progression opportunities

The Operations Shift Manager opportunity:

You’ll lead a team of 5–10 people, which consists of Inspectors and Team Leaders; ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality operations. From project setup and shift planning to reporting and people management, you’ll be at the centre of day-to-day performance. This is a hands-on role with varied workloads, where clear and confident decision-making will help you thrive.

Working hours are currently 05:30am - 14:15pm (Flexibility needed towards this as shifts may change to a 2-shift rotating pattern)

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Leading and coaching a team of quality professionals

Communicate effectively with the customer to manage workflow, discuss upcoming projects, and set clear expectations — including handling challenging conversations when needed to ensure smooth operations.

Supporting the Plant Manager with achievements and expectations

Ensuring the team have the relevant tooling, material flow, PPE and understanding to work to the required Test Plan / WES.

Supporting with 8D investigations, Level 1 and 5S Audits.

Supporting the Plant Manager with recruitment, inductions, appraisals and training.

The ideal Operations Shift Manager will have the following experience:

Proven leadership skills gained within a manufacturing or production environment.

Confident communicator with the ability to manage customer relationships, discuss project plans, and handle difficult conversations to set clear and realistic expectations.

Computer literate, including Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.

Ability to resolve issues promptly, within a professional manner.

Due to the nature of the role, you must have a full UK Driving license with access to your own vehicle.

Nice to have experience, but not essential:

Experience gained within Automotive or Quality

Previous experience using SAP

This is a permanent position with progression opportunities available.

If this role sounds like it could be of interest, then please apply today for a confidential chat.

Established in 1994, G&P is a world-leading provider of quality management services to the manufacturing industry, primarily in the automotive, aerospace and off-highway sectors. G&P operates as both an employment business and employment agency in providing and advertising opportunities for our clients.

G&P’s philosophy is to provide efficient and effective solutions to eliminate disruptions throughout the manufacturing process and supply chain to support the drive for zero defects reaching the end user.

Gobel & Partner is an equal opportunities employer and do not discriminate on the grounds of gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, gender reassignment, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, disability or age