Director of Manufacturing & Operations

About the Job

Director of Manufacturing & Operations

London, N4

️ 4 days in our office, 1 day working from home

Insiya Jafferjee, CEO

£80-100K (depending on experience) + equity

About Shellworks

Developed for a throwaway culture, plastics have caused significant pollution to our natural environments with 90% of all plastics ever created never being recycled. More so, recent studies have identified that plastics impact goes beyond pollution to chemicals and micro-plastics that impact human and environmental health.

We believe there must be a better way and our first innovation Vivomer does just that; if nature made a plastic this would be it. Vivomer, a polymer made by microorganisms, behaves just like plastic in use, but degrades upon disposal in any natural environment. Developed through cutting-edge material science, mechanical engineering, design, and operations, Vivomer represents a groundbreaking step towards a pollution-free future.

The nature of our work is frequently described as impossible, but if like us, you're driven by the challenge to prove that there is a better way to do things, join us. You will play a critical role in developing the future of materials, how products are created, and directly contribute to reducing plastic pollution.

The Opportunity

We're seeking a Director of Manufacturing and Operations to scale the future of sustainable packaging. In this role, you'll take Shellworks from manufacturing 4 million units to 100Mn+.

As part of our fast-paced, collaborative environment, you'll have the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the planet while growing your expertise. If you're passionate about using your Manufacturing and Operations skills to solve complex challenges and create a better future, this is the perfect role for you.

Our Ideal Candidate

Must-haves:

1. 10+ years of experience in manufacturing and operations in (or adjacent to) a polymer manufacturing environment.
2. Strong leadership and management abilities including leading a cross-functional team of 10+ people (and building this team also).
3. Proven experience in production and process development including the building of global supply chains.
4. Excellent communication skills with demonstrable experience in stakeholder management and negotiation.

Nice-to-haves:

1. Pre-existing network of relevant manufacturing partners or suppliers.
2. Experience working in a start-up environment, specifically one that has scaled successfully.
3. Expertise and immersion in emergent technologies and trends in sustainable material innovation.

Key Responsibilities

Manufacturing Operations:

1. Oversee daily manufacturing operations, ensuring production meets cost, quality, and lead time.
2. Improve processes to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
3. Manage equipment maintenance and upgrades for product development and scaling.
4. Replicate manufacturing operations globally, setting up new regional hubs.

New Manufacturing Technology Development:

1. Sourcing and qualifying new partners for new manufacturing methods.
2. Oversee scale-up from lab to commercial production, addressing challenges proactively.
3. Lead, mentor, and develop a multidisciplinary team, fostering a collaborative culture of innovation while ensuring skill growth through training programs.

Commercialisation:

1. Manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and ensure cost-effective, high-quality sourcing from vendors and industry partners.
2. Collaborate with sales and marketing to align product development with market needs.
3. Ensure a seamless transition from development to commercial production for new packaging products.

Our Benefits

1. 21 days holiday + birthday off + 27-31st December, in addition to all statutory and public holidays.
2. Opportunities for growth and development as we expand and scale our impact.
3. Access to a fully kitted out on-site lab (incubators, autoclaves, bioreactors, etc.) and pilot line workshop (machine tools, injection moulder, extruders, blow moulders, etc.).
4. Competitive salary and equity options.
5. Regular social events and fully stocked office kitchen. Part of a tightly knit team aiming to make a meaningful social impact.