Operations Manager

Our client, based in Nantwich, are seeking a proactive and hands-on Operations Manager to lead the operations function to support the continued growth of the business.

The successful candidate will play a key role in planning and delivering project, improving operational efficiency, strengthening processes and standards, and ensuring work is delivered on time, on budget, and to a high quality.

The position would suit someone who enjoys leading people, solving problems on the ground, working closely with finance and commercial colleagues to find better ways of doing things.

This is a senior role within a growing SME environment and will involve both strategic and hands-on responsibility.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Delivery

Oversee the day-to-day running of operations across all sites and projects

Plan, schedule, and allocate resources, labour, and equipment effectively

Ensure projects and work are delivered on time, on budget, and to the required standard

Monitor progress and resolve operational issues quickly and effectively

Act as a key point of contact for customers on escalated operational matters

Planning & Performance

Develop and track operational KPIs and performance metrics

Produce regular operational reporting for senior management

Work with the finance team to monitor project costs, margins, and productivity

Support capacity planning and forecasting as the business grows

Contribute to operational strategy and business planning

Process & Efficiency Improvement

Review and improve operational processes, workflows, and systems

Identify opportunities for cost savings, waste reduction, and productivity gains

Introduce clear standards, procedures, and accountability across teams

Drive the use of systems and technology to improve visibility and control

Team Management

Lead, motivate, and develop the operations team and supervisors

Set clear objectives and manage performance, training, and development

Oversee recruitment, onboarding, and workforce planning for operational roles

Build a positive, accountable, and safety-focused team culture

Health & Safety, Quality & Compliance

Ensure full compliance with health and safety legislation and company policies

Oversee risk assessments, method statements, and site safety standards

Maintain quality standards and manage any customer complaints or non-conformances

Manage suppliers, subcontractors, and key operational contracts

Maintain IS9001 quality management system and accreditation

What Success Looks Like

Projects and work consistently delivered on time and on budget

Remove capacity constraints to growth through efficient in-house and out sourced production

Clear visibility of operational performance through KPIs and reporting

Improved efficiency, productivity, and margins across operations

A strong health and safety record and culture

A motivated, capable, and accountable operations team

Scaleable operational processes that support the growth of the business.

Requirements

IOSH Managing Safely or NEBOSH qualification preferred

A management or leadership qualification (e.g. CMI) would be an advantage

Candidates with strong practical operational experience will also be considered

Proven experience in an operations management role, ideally within a project-based or SME environment

Strong planning, scheduling, and resource management capability

Experience of managing and developing teams

Good commercial awareness, with an understanding of costs, margins, and productivity

Track record of improving processes and operational efficiency

Sound working knowledge of health and safety requirements

Confident with Excel, reporting, and operational systems

Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills

Comfortable operating in a hands-on SME environment

Benefits

Salary- £60,000- £70,000

Profit related bonus

Healthcare cash plan

Pension