Operations Manager

UK-Based | Full-Time

A leading specialist contractor within the UK water sector is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee the successful delivery of projects across multiple operational areas.

This is a senior leadership role focused on client relationship management, operational performance, project delivery, team leadership and continuous improvement. The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring projects are delivered safely, efficiently, on budget and to the highest quality standards.

Reporting to the Operations Director, you will lead teams of Project Managers and supporting personnel to deliver complex water industry projects while maintaining strong client relationships and ensuring operational excellence throughout the business. 

Key responsibilities include:

• Acting as the primary point of contact for clients, maintaining and developing strong professional relationships
• Leading and managing project delivery teams across allocated operational regions
• Monitoring project performance including programme delivery, budgets and risk management
• Supporting recruitment, induction, performance management and development of operational staff
• Ensuring compliance with integrated management systems, quality standards and operational procedures
• Managing subcontractors and suppliers, including performance evaluation and onboarding of new partners
• Working collaboratively with wider operational teams to maximise resource utilisation and project efficiency
• Providing regular operational and financial updates to senior leadership
• Driving a “Right First Time” culture focused on quality, safety and continuous improvement

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• Strong leadership and team management experience
• Excellent communication and client relationship skills
• Experience delivering projects within the water industry
• A strong understanding of operational, financial and programme management
• Engineering knowledge with practical site experience
• The ability to motivate teams and resolve conflict effectively
• A proactive and highly self-motivated approach
• Strong ethical standards and commitment to high-quality delivery
• Planning and programming experience

A Chartered Engineer status would be advantageous but is not essential.