Business Operations Manager

Not every business needs layers of management, endless meetings, and corporate politics.

Some businesses need someone who simply gets things done.

This is one of those businesses.

Business Operations Manager
Bacup, Lancashire

*    Full-time, permanent
*    Competitive salary dependent on experience

Please note: Applicants must have the right to work in the UK and live within a 30-minute commuting distance of Bacup.

About us

Established in 1917, Lancashire Sock Manufacturing Company is a specialist manufacturer supplying customers across the UK, Europe and beyond.

We're a family-run business where people roll their sleeves up, solve problems and get involved. No two days are the same, and that's exactly how we like it.

The role

We're looking for someone who can become the operational backbone of the business.

This isn't a traditional Office Manager role. It's a varied position for someone who enjoys taking ownership, improving processes and helping a business run more efficiently.

You'll work closely with the owner and senior leadership team, supporting the day-to-day running of the business across finance, purchasing, administration and operations.

One day you might be negotiating with suppliers and reviewing purchasing costs. The next you could be producing management reports, supporting month-end accounts, working with our external accountants on year-end requirements, improving office systems or researching how AI can help streamline processes.

This is a role for someone who enjoys variety, takes pride in solving problems and isn't afraid to roll their sleeves up when needed.

Key responsibilities

*    Manage the day-to-day administration and operations of the business.
*    Oversee purchasing activities, supplier relationships and commercial negotiations.
*    Identify cost-saving opportunities and improve operational efficiency.
*    Maintain Sage accounts and payroll records.
*    Support month-end reporting and year-end accounting processes.
*    Liaise with external accountants and professional advisers.
*    Produce and analyse Excel reports, spreadsheets and management information.
*    Support import and export administration, including CDS processes.
*    Research and implement practical AI solutions to improve business performance.
*    Develop and improve business systems, processes and workflows.
*    Support senior management with business planning and decision-making.

We'd love to hear from you if you have experience with:

*    Working in an SME, owner-managed or family-run business.
*    Sage accounts and payroll.
*    Month-end reporting and year-end accounts preparation.
*    Purchasing, procurement and supplier management.
*    Import and export administration.
*    Advanced Excel and reporting.
*    Process improvement and operational efficiency.
*    AI and business automation.
*    Managing multiple priorities and responsibilities.

How to apply

If you're someone who thrives in a hands-on business environment and enjoys improving processes, solving problems and helping businesses run better, we'd love to hear from you.

You must be authorised to work in the UK. No agencies please.

Related job titles: Business Operations Manager, Operations Manager, Business Manager, Office Manager, Commercial Manager, SME Operations Manager, Finance and Operations Manager, General Manager, Purchasing Manager, Procurement Manager, Business Support Manager, Company Manager, Manufacturing Office Manager, Family Business Manager, Executive Assistant, Managing Director's Assistant
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed