Operations Director

About Keelings

Keelings is a completely Irish-owned family enterprise dedicated to delivering high-quality fresh fruit and vegetables. Operating throughout Ireland, the UK, and Europe, the company focuses on innovation, sustainability, and nurturing strong partnerships, driven by a committed workforce.

Role Purpose

The Operations Director plays a vital senior leadership role, providing strategic oversight and operational management across the organization's comprehensive operational functions. This encompasses warehouse, logistics, transport, technical, quality, stock control, and site infrastructure. The role ensures delivery of outstanding customer service, operational excellence, and sustainable growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead strategically across a multifaceted operational environment including warehouse, logistics, transport, technical, quality, stock control, and site infrastructure.
• Create and implement operational strategies to equip the business with needed capacity, resources, and infrastructure supporting current operations and future expansion.
• Manage the operational function's full P&L, enhance financial outcomes through budget oversight, cost controls, productivity enhancements, and strategic savings initiatives.
• Oversee company transport operations and vehicle fleet (50+ vehicles), ensuring optimal utilization, compliance, maintenance scheduling, fleet renewal, and cost efficiency.
• Champion and implement technology-driven enhancements, utilizing automation, AI, digital platforms, data analytics, and emerging tech to improve operations.
• Maintain exceptional customer service through warehouse, logistics, and transport operations while safeguarding stock accuracy, product integrity, risk management, food safety, quality standards, HACCP adherence, health and safety, and compliance with regulations.

Key Qualifications and Experience

• Experience at Director or senior leadership level in complex operational, logistics, distribution, FMCG, food, or comparable fast-moving sectors.
• Proven history managing operational P&L, budgeting, cost control, and financial performance.
• Developed effective workforce strategies including labor planning and recruitment tailored to operational demand and seasonality.
• Legal knowledge of transport management backed by a current Transport Manager Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).
• Strong expertise in warehouse logistics, inventory control, distribution, and operational flow.
• Demonstrated ability to apply technology such as automation, AI, and digital systems to boost operational efficiency.
• In-depth understanding of food safety, HACCP protocols, quality management, health and safety, and regulatory standards.

Preferred Experience

• Background in FMCG, fresh produce, foodservice, chilled distribution, or food manufacturing industries.
• Leadership in warehouse expansions, operational integrations, infrastructure upgrades, or major capital projects.
• Implementation experience with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Transport Management Systems (TMS), ERP platforms, or related operational technologies.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Operational Excellence, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement practices.
• Proven track record leading large-scale business transformations or growth initiatives.

Education and Certifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Operations Management, Supply Chain, Engineering, Business, or similar disciplines.
• Required Transport Manager Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).
• Evidence of ongoing professional development.
• Additional leadership, logistics, or operational excellence qualifications are advantageous.

Additional Information

• The role demands a highly visible, commercially savvy leader, adept at both strategic planning and operational execution.
• The successful candidate will foster change, challenge existing practices, and build a top-tier operational function aligned with the organization's growth goals.
• Frequent presence in operational areas to maintain engagement and insight into daily performance is required.
• Occasional travel between operational sites, suppliers, customers, and strategic partners is expected.

Benefits

• Employee discounts at Keelings Farm Shop and subsidized canteen facilities.
• Complimentary onsite parking with electric vehicle charging stations.
• Wellness programs including designated wellness weeks.

Values and Culture

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

Inclusion and Diversity

Keelings embraces diverse perspectives and strives to create an inclusive environment where all employees can contribute and belong. Applications from all backgrounds are encouraged.

Reasonable Accommodation

Applicants needing accommodations during recruitment should contact the company to discuss requirements.

Recruitment Process

• Step 1: CV submission with email confirmation.
• Step 2: Telephone screening.
• Step 3: First interview.
• Step 4: Second interview.
• Step 5: Feedback and decision communication.