Head Of Operations

The Sales Recruitment Network; England; Hybrid; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking a dynamic Head of UK Operations to oversee operational strategy and elevate client experience. The role involves leading teams and ensuring compliance while driving performance and operational delivery. Ideal candidates have proven leadership in a certification body, strong strategic planning skills, and the ability to foster client satisfaction. This is a full-time position based in Luton with a hybrid work model.

Qualifications

• Proven senior leadership in operations within a certification body or regulated environment.
• The ability to work three days in the office.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead UK Operations: Oversee Client Management, Scheduling, Technical Review, and Decision Making teams.
• Drive Strategy: Shape and implement operational plans aligned with accreditation and business goals.
• Champion Compliance: Ensure adherence to ISO 17021 and GDPR.

Skills

Senior leadership in operations

Strategic planning

People leadership

Communication skills

Proficiency in MS Office

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

Head of UK Operations

Luton / Hybrid | Full-time | 📄 Permanent

Lead operational strategy, drive performance, and elevate client experience in a nationally accredited certification environment.

Are you a strategic operations leader with a passion for quality, compliance, and customer excellence? We’re seeking a dynamic Head of UK Operations to lead UK delivery teams and oversee audit performance, technical decision-making, and client satisfaction.

Reporting to the Global Operations Director, this is a high-impact leadership role with responsibility for operational delivery, team development, and industry representation.

Key dutoes :

• Lead UK Operations : Oversee Client Management, Scheduling, Technical Review, and Decision Making teams.
• Drive Strategy : Shape and implement operational plans aligned with accreditation and business goals.
• Champion Compliance : Ensure adherence to ISO 17021, GDPR, and other regulatory frameworks.
• Enhance Client Experience : Embed a culture of service excellence and value-added delivery.
• Optimise Performance : Monitor KPIs, resolve operational constraints, and drive continuous improvement.
• Collaborate & Represent : Partner with Commercial and Field Directors, and represent the organisation at events and committees.

Key skills and experience required :

Essential :

• Proven senior leadership in operations within a certiifcation body or regulated environment
• The ability to work three days in the office
• Strategic planning and implementation experience
• Strong people leadership and team development skills
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities
• Proficiency in MS Office and ERP systems
• Full, clean driving licence

Desirable :

• Understanding of accreditation and quality infrastructure (e.g., ISO / IEC 17021)
• Ability to build strong internal and external relationships, including international stakeholders

Why This Role?

This is your opportunity to lead with purpose, influence industry standards, and shape how certification services are delivered across the UK. You’ll join a forward-thinking leadership team committed to operational excellence, regulatory integrity, and exceptional client outcomes.

Ready to make your mark in a mission-driven, high-impact environment?

Apply now and help shape the future of certification