Operations Manager (Recycling) – Ipswich
Salary: £45-£60K DOE

28 days holiday

Life Insurance

Pension

Employee assistance programme

Free parking

One of Suffolk’s top waste and recycling companies — committed to making a real difference for the community and the environment are looking for an experienced and motivated MRF Operations Manager to lead their busy recycling facility and help them continue setting the standard for excellence in their industry.

The Role

As our MRF Operations Manager, you’ll take charge of the day-to-day running of the recycling facility, ensuring everything operates smoothly, safely, and efficiently. You’ll lead a dedicated team of around 20 people — including Team Leaders, machine operators, and sort line staff — and play a key role in maintaining high performance across all departments.

This is an exciting leadership role where you’ll combine operational know-how with commercial awareness — managing budgets, controlling costs, and ensuring the site runs at its best every day.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Lead & Inspire: Motivate and develop Team Leaders and their teams to deliver great results and maintain a positive working culture.
• Keep Operations Running Smoothly: Oversee daily MRF activities, ensuring compliance with site licenses and operational standards.
• Champion Safety: Promote and enforce top-tier health, safety, and environmental standards. Work closely with our EQHS Manager to ensure all regulations are met.
• Drive Commercial Success: Manage budgets and tonnages, and find smart ways to maximise the value of recyclable materials.
• Ensure Efficient Logistics: Maintain high service standards for waste processing from both our fleet and third-party partners.
• Oversee Maintenance: Make sure all equipment — from balers and shredders to loaders and excavators — is well maintained and running efficiently.
• Build Strong Partnerships: Work closely with customers, suppliers, and colleagues across the business to create a smooth, efficient operation.

About You

We’re looking for someone who’s not just experienced — but passionate about leading people and improving operations.

You’ll bring:

• Proven experience in a senior waste management or recycling role
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Practical knowledge of operating balers, shredders, and mobile plant
• A proactive approach to safety, with IOSH or NEBOSH qualifications (or a willingness to gain them)
• A commercial mindset — able to balance efficiency, costs, and performance
• A COTC4 (WAMITAB) qualification, or a willingness to achieve it with our support