Operations Director

Solution Search Limited - Construction; Basildon; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Solution Search Limited - Construction is seeking an experienced Operations Director to lead fit-out and facilities management delivery. Reporting to the Managing Director, you will oversee project delivery teams, drive performance, ensure client satisfaction and contribute to strategic growth.

This senior role demands proven leadership, strong commercial acumen, and the ability to manage budgets and multiple contracts.

Qualifications

• Proven track record delivering multiple projects and contracts.
• Strong commercial understanding with responsibility for budgets, profitability, and operational performance.
• Excellent leadership and people management skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee projects and FM contracts to be delivered safely, on time, within budget, and to high quality standards.
• Develop operational strategies that support business growth and efficiency.
• Drive continuous improvement across project delivery, contract management, and operational processes.
• Work with commercial and estimating teams to maximise profitability.
• Review contract performance, project margins, and operational KPIs.
• Identify opportunities for additional revenue, contract growth, and service improvements.
• Support tender submissions and client presentations where required.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with existing and prospective clients.
• Act as a senior point of contact for key accounts.
• Lead, mentor, and develop project managers, contract managers, site teams, and operational staff.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Project delivery

Commercial awareness

People management

Education

Construction management degree

Job description

The company are a well-established, medium-sized contractor delivering high-quality fit-out, refurbishment and facilities management services across the commercial sector

Known for their responsive service, strong client relationships, and ability to successfully manage projects ranging from reactive maintenance works through to complex fit-outs, they now seek an experienced and ambitious individual to join their senior leadership team and help drive the next phase of our growth.

The Role

Reporting directly to the Managing Director, the Operations Director will have overall responsibility for the successful delivery of fit-out and facilities management operations. You will lead project delivery teams, oversee operational performance, ensure client satisfaction, and contribute strategically to business growth and profitability.

This is a key position suited to an individual who combines strong operational expertise with commercial awareness.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee projects and FM contracts are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
• Develop and implement operational strategies that support business growth and efficiency.
• Drive continuous improvement across project delivery, contract management, and operational processes.
• Work closely with the commercial and estimating teams to maximise profitability.
• Review contract performance, project margins, and operational KPIs.
• Identify opportunities for additional revenue, contract growth, and service improvements.
• Support tender submissions and client presentations where required.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with existing and prospective clients.
• Act as a senior point of contact for key accounts.
• Lead, mentor, and develop project managers, contract managers, site teams, and operational staff.
• Foster a positive, collaborative, and accountable culture.
• Support recruitment, succession planning, and employee development initiatives.
• Promote high standards of performance, professionalism, and safety throughout the business.

Individuals will have:

• Proven track record of successfully delivering multiple projects and contracts simultaneously.
• Strong commercial understanding with responsibility for budgets, profitability, and operational performance.
• Excellent leadership and people management skills.
• Strong client relationship and stakeholder management capabilities.
• Exceptional organisational, communication, and decision-making skills.

Desirable

• Experience within SME or medium-sized contractor environments.
• Relevant degree, HNC, HND, or professional qualification in Construction Management, Building, Facilities Management, or a related discipline.
• Experience leading business improvement and growth initiatives.
• Membership of a relevant professional body