Defence Operations Lead - Complex Systems & Logistics

The Abbey; West of England; On-site; GBP 135,000 - 164,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

SC Clearance

Job summary

The Abbey in Bristol is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to support a specialist Defence environment. The role spans operational and technical teams, focusing on delivery and in-service management of complex weapons and systems.

It requires rapid understanding of a technical setting and governance across stakeholders. Essential experience includes leading operations in defence or similar environments, managing contracts and suppliers, and maintaining SC clearance.

Qualifications

• Significant operations management experience in defence or a similarly complex technical environment.
• Experience managing contracts, suppliers, deliverables and performance.
• Experience with complex technical systems, equipment or weapons.
• Experience in logistics, stock control or equipment management.
• Strong stakeholder management across technical and operational teams.
• Current SC Security Clearance.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operational activities within a complex Defence environment.
• Support the management of complex weapons and technical systems throughout their lifecycle.
• Develop and implement acquisition strategies aligned with Category A Approval requirements.
• Plan and oversee tactical development firing trials, ensuring safety, governance and compliance.
• Manage suppliers and contracts, including milestones, deliverables and performance.
• Support procurement of equipment and services.
• Coordinate logistics and equipment delivery, including stock and associated operational processes.
• Manage project schedules, budgets, KPIs and delivery performance.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies.
• Monitor service delivery and undertake supplier/service surveillance.
• Coordinate with technical, procurement, legal, logistics and operational teams.
• Support systems/equipment integration and development of operational procedures.
• Prepare and manage Category A Approval documentation.
• Report progress and key issues to senior stakeholders.
• Conduct post-trial evaluations and capture lessons learned.

Skills

Operations management

Contract management

Stakeholder management

Logistics management

Risk & compliance

Microsoft Teams

Tools

Microsoft Teams

Job description

The Abbey in Bristol is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to support a specialist Defence environment. The role spans operational and technical teams, focusing on delivery and in-service management of complex weapons and systems.

It requires rapid understanding of a technical setting and governance across stakeholders. Essential experience includes leading operations in defence or similar environments, managing contracts and suppliers, and maintaining SC clearance.