Head of Operations

The Head of Operations at Manna is responsible for leading the day-to-day execution of our live delivery sites, ensuring high-quality and safe operations. This includes monitoring performance metrics, building scalable systems for growth, coaching teams, collaborating with cross-functional departments, championing safety and compliance, and managing budgets and resources.

To be considered for the Head of Operations role at Manna, candidates should have experience in operational leadership, particularly with medium to large teams across multiple sites. A track record in process optimization, data-driven decision-making, adaptability in fast-paced environments, and strong communication skills are essential.

The Head of Operations plays a critical role at Manna by embedding safety into the culture rather than merely following checklists. This includes working closely with the Regulation team to ensure compliance and proactively adapting operational processes as the company evolves, thereby enhancing overall safety in drone delivery operations.

An ideal candidate for the Head of Operations at Manna should possess strong leadership qualities, adaptability, and resilience. They should thrive in high-growth environments, communicate effectively with team members and leadership, and maintain a hands-on approach while keeping an eye on long-term goals and strategic growth.

The culture at Manna is dynamic and fast-paced, emphasizing collaboration and innovation. As Head of Operations, you will be part of a high-performance environment where safety is paramount, and your input will directly impact operational improvements. You'll have the autonomy to shape operational strategies while working alongside passionate and skilled colleagues.

In your response, highlight specific examples of teams you've led, the size and scope of operations, and how you ensured success through effective leadership and communication. Discuss techniques you employed to motivate teams and maintain high performance.

Prepare to discuss your methodology for identifying inefficiencies and implementing improvements. Use specific examples where data-driven decisions led to significant enhancements in service delivery, safety, or team performance.

Convey your experience with budget forecasting and resource allocation. Discuss how you plan for staffing and equipment needs based on operational demands and future growth, and emphasize cost-saving measures you've successfully executed.

Explain your philosophy on safety and how you've integrated it into operational processes. Share examples of safety training programs you've implemented or how you championed a culture of accountability and compliance within teams.

Share a specific incident where you encountered an unexpected challenge. Detail the steps you took to assess, respond, and resolve the situation while keeping the team aligned and informed throughout the process.

Discuss your experience in fostering communication between various levels of the organization. Highlight strategies you employed to keep teams informed of leadership decisions and ensure that operational feedback is effectively relayed upward.

Talk about the key performance indicators (KPIs) you believe are crucial for evaluating operations and the software or tools you utilize to track these metrics. Be sure to mention your experience with real-time data analysis to drive strategic decisions.

Detail specific examples where you've successfully scaled operations in prior roles. Focus on how you built and implemented systems that accommodated growth while ensuring quality and safety and how you managed changes during this scaling process.

Discuss how you inspire accountability and encourage team contributions. Share methods you’ve used to recognize achievements, provide constructive feedback, and support professional development to build operational leaders.

In your answer, reflect on potential industry challenges such as regulatory changes, rapid growth, or technological advancements in drone delivery. Explain how you would approach these challenges proactively and strategically to ensure operational success.