Interim COO: Lead Operations & Growth (12m FTC)

Sumer Group; Ipswich; On-site; GBP 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Sumer Group is seeking an Interim Chief Operating Officer to lead operations on a fixed-term basis in Ipswich. The role focuses on sustaining performance, delivering client-centric service, and guiding commercial outcomes during the maternity cover period.

The post requires senior leadership experience, strong stakeholder management and proven capability to drive profitability, operational improvements and group-wide process adoption while maintaining continuity for clients and teams.

Qualifications

• Senior operational leader with ability to join leadership team quickly.
• Experience in COO or Operations Director or equivalent role.
• Proven track record in driving operational and financial performance.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations with a focus on commercial performance, quality and client experience.
• Lead client delivery and resource planning with service line leaders to balance workloads.
• Monitor utilisation, work in progress, write-offs and job profitability; manage operational risks.
• Drive integration, change and adoption of Group processes, technology and ways of working.
• Foster clear accountability, collaboration and a positive working environment across teams.

Skills

COO level leadership

Operations leadership

Commercial judgement

Change management

Stakeholder management

Growth via acquisition

Job description

Sumer Group is seeking an Interim Chief Operating Officer to lead operations on a fixed-term basis in Ipswich. The role focuses on sustaining performance, delivering client-centric service, and guiding commercial outcomes during the maternity cover period.

The post requires senior leadership experience, strong stakeholder management and proven capability to drive profitability, operational improvements and group-wide process adoption while maintaining continuity for clients and teams.