General Manager / Head of Operations

Bennett and Game Recruitment LTD; Sevenoaks; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment firm is seeking a commercially minded General Manager / Head of Operations for a technical site in Sevenoaks. This hands-on leadership role requires managing day-to-day operations, team performance, and financial performance, with potential progression into an Operations Director position. Ideal candidates will have experience in a senior operational role, commercial acumen, excellent project management skills, and a background in technical environments. Competitive salary and benefits offered.

Benefits

Profit-share bonus

28 days annual leave

Increase holiday with years of service

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a senior operational or General Manager role.
• Background in a technical, scientific, laboratory, or regulated environment.
• Strong commercial acumen with experience managing P&L.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, develop, and motivate teams.
• Experience driving operational efficiency and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage cross-functional teams to deliver operational excellence.
• Take ownership of site operations, ensuring compliance and performance.
• Manage profit and loss, ensuring financial targets are met.
• Coach and develop staff to build a high-performing team.
• Implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and service delivery.

Skills

Leadership

P&L Management

Project Management

Team Development

Operational Excellence

Job description

Position: General Manager / Head of Operations

Location: Sevenoaks

Salary: 50,000 - £65,000 (DOE) - Negotiable for an exceptional candidate

We are seeking a commercially minded and operationally focused General Manager / Head of Operations to take ownership of a busy technical site.

This is a hands‑on leadership role with responsibility for day‑to‑day operations, team management, and financial performance, offering the potential to progress into an Operations Director position as the business grows.

Job Overview

• Lead and manage cross‑functional teams to deliver operational excellence
• Take ownership of site operations, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and high performance
• Drive adherence to procedures, KPIs, and quality standards
• Develop and implement operational and strategic plans aligned to business objectives
• Manage profit and loss, ensuring financial targets are met through effective cost control and revenue generation
• Coach, mentor, and develop staff to build a high‑performing, motivated team
• Support business development by identifying growth opportunities and contributing to new product/service initiatives
• Oversee projects from inception to completion, ensuring delivery on time, within scope, and within budget
• Implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, quality, and service delivery (Lean/Six Sigma desirable)
• Ensure compliance with company policies, regulatory requirements, and health & safety standards

Job Requirements

• Proven experience in a senior operational or General Manager role
• Background in a technical, scientific, laboratory, or regulated environment desirable
• Strong commercial acumen with experience managing P&L and driving operational performance
• Demonstrated ability to lead, develop, and motivate teams
• Experience supporting business growth, service development, or product development initiatives
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives
• Experience driving operational efficiency and continuous improvement (Lean/Six Sigma desirable)
• Confident communicator with strong stakeholder management skills

Salary & Benefits

• 50,000 - £65,000 (DOE) - Negotiable for an exceptional candidate
• Profit‑share bonus
• Full‑time, onsite position (Monday‑Friday, 8-5)
• 28 days annual leave including bank holidays
• Earn an extra day of holiday each year of service (up to 5 additional days)