Operations Director

About Keelings

Keelings is a fully Irish-owned family enterprise dedicated to fresh produce, operating throughout Ireland, the UK, and Europe. The company cultivates, sources, and supplies premium quality fruits and vegetables, with its success founded on innovation, sustainability, strong partnerships, and committed employees.

Role Purpose

The Operations Director holds a vital leadership position accountable for steering the strategic and operational aspects of the entire operational spectrum. This encompasses warehousing, logistics, transportation, technical support, quality assurance, stock management, and site infrastructure. The role aims to ensure excellent customer service, operational excellence, and sustainable expansion.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead an extensive and multifaceted operational domain including warehousing, logistics, transport, quality control, stock management, technical operations, and infrastructure.
• Formulate and enact operational strategies that ensure the company has adequate capability, resources, and infrastructure to meet current demands and growth targets, while achieving quality, safety, and customer service goals.
• Hold comprehensive P&L accountability for operations, focusing on budget management, cost reduction, productivity enhancement, margin sustainability, and strategic savings.
• Oversee the transport division and fleet of over 50 vehicles, ensuring effective utilization, legal compliance, maintenance, replacement strategy, operational efficiency, and cost management.
• Champion and implement technology-driven improvement initiatives, embracing automation, artificial intelligence, digital platforms, data analytics, and emerging technologies.
• Guarantee that warehousing, logistics, and transport consistently provide exceptional customer experiences along with stringent controls on inventory accuracy, product quality, risk management, food safety (including HACCP), health & safety, and regulatory compliance.

Essential Qualifications and Experience

• Extensive leadership experience at director or senior levels within complex operations such as logistics, distribution, FMCG, or fast-moving food sectors.
• Proven expertise managing operational financials including P&L, budgeting, and cost efficiency programs.
• Competence in designing workforce strategies and managing labor planning and recruitment in line with fluctuating operational and seasonal needs.
• Legally compliant in managing transport operations with a current Transport Manager Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).
• Deep understanding of warehouse management, inventory control, logistics, distribution, and comprehensive operational processes.
• Demonstrated ability to identify and deploy technological solutions that enhance operational capability through automation, AI, or digital transformation.
• Strong command of food safety standards, HACCP, quality systems, health and safety protocols, and compliance regulations.

Desirable Attributes

• Experience in FMCG, fresh produce, foodservice, chilled distribution, or food manufacturing sectors.
• Track record of overseeing warehouse expansions, operational integrations, infrastructure projects, or substantial capital investments.
• Familiarity with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Transport Management Systems (TMS), ERP solutions, or other digital operations technologies.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Operational Excellence, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methods.
• Successful leadership of major business transformation or growth initiatives.

Education & Certifications

• A degree or higher qualification in Operations Management, Supply Chain, Engineering, Business, or a related field.
• Required Transport Manager Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).
• Proof of ongoing professional development.
• Additional certifications in leadership, logistics, or operational excellence are advantageous.

Additional Information

• This role demands a highly visible business-focused operational leader able to develop long-term strategies and deliver operational execution.
• The candidate is expected to challenge norms, influence operational improvements, and nurture a top-tier operational team that supports long-term growth objectives.
• Regular engagement within operational environments is essential to maintain visibility, encourage workforce involvement, and thoroughly monitor daily performance.
• Some travel may be needed between operational sites, customers, suppliers, and strategic partners.

Benefits

• Entitled to staff discounts at the Keelings Farm Shop and subsidised canteen meals.
• Complimentary onsite parking with access to electric vehicle chargers.
• Participation in wellness initiatives such as wellness weeks.

Values & Culture

• Commitment to People Matter, Teamwork, Integrity, and Passion for Achievement.

Inclusion & Diversity Statement

Keelings values diversity and inclusiveness, embracing all cultural and background perspectives to create an environment where every employee feels valued and can contribute uniquely.

Reasonable Accommodation

Applicants requiring accommodations during recruitment are encouraged to request support.

Recruitment Process

• Submission and confirmation of CV,
• Phone screening,
• First interview,
• Second interview,
• Outcome notification and feedback.