Operations Director

Samuel Knight International; England; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading infrastructure services company is seeking an Operations Director to lead their Overhead Line division across the UK. This strategic role will involve overseeing delivery performance, managing P&L, and driving business development in a high-value environment. The ideal candidate will have proven leadership experience in the OHL industry, strong commercial acumen, and a focus on safety and team development. The position offers a competitive package and clear career progression opportunities.

Benefits

Clear route to executive-level career progression

Strong focus on safety and long-term growth

Competitive package reflective of seniority

Qualifications

• Experience managing large portfolios and teams in the OHL sector.
• Track record of growing revenue streams in utilities or infrastructure.
• Collaborative leadership focused on team development.

Responsibilities

• Full operational and commercial control of the OHL division.
• Deliver business objectives and long-term growth strategy.
• Drive productivity, quality, and client satisfaction.

Skills

Proven leadership experience in the Overhead Line (OHL) industry (LV to 33kV)

Commercially astute with full P&L responsibility

Strong understanding of UK DNO regulatory landscape

Excellent communication and decision-making skills

Health & safety focused

Education

Business or technical degree, or equivalent experience

HNC in Electrical Engineering (desirable)

Job description

Overview

Operations Director – Overhead Line (OHL) (m/f/d). Midlands | Permanent | £10M+ P&L Oversight | LV–33kV

We’re supporting a infrastructure and utilities services business in their search for an Operations Director to lead their Overhead Line (OHL) division. This is a strategic, high-impact leadership role responsible for the growth, delivery, and profitability of the OHL business across the UK.

With a £10 million+ portfolio, you’ll drive sales, oversee delivery performance, and ensure safe, high-quality service across a growing order book – while collaborating with the Senior Leadership Team to shape long-term strategy.

Key Responsibilities

• Full operational and commercial control of the OHL division across the UK
• Deliver business objectives, financial targets, and long-term growth strategy
• Lead business development efforts to build and sustain a healthy pipeline and backlog
• Oversee operational delivery, safety, cost control, and risk management
• Drive productivity, quality, and client satisfaction across all live and upcoming projects
• Support the development of career pathways and competency frameworks with HR
• Work closely with general managers to manage sub-P&L performance and resource development
• Represent the OHL business within the Divisional Senior Leadership Team
• Contribute to brand building, market positioning, and customer experience strategy
• Foster a culture of Zero Harm and regulatory excellence

What We’re Looking For

• Proven leadership experience in the Overhead Line (OHL) industry (LV to 33kV)
• Commercially astute with a background in full P&L responsibility
• Business or technical degree, or equivalent experience (HNC Electrical Engineering desirable)
• Strong understanding of the UK DNO/regulatory landscape and OHL works best practice
• Experience managing large portfolios, teams, and major client accounts
• Track record of growing revenue streams and winning work in utilities or infrastructure sectors
• Collaborative leadership style and a focus on team development
• Excellent communication, time management, and decision-making skills
• Health & safety focused with the ability to embed and champion a strong safety culture

What’s on Offer

• Leadership role with strategic influence and high visibility
• Remit with a respected utilities contractor
• Clear route to executive-level career progression
• Strong focus on safety, people, and long-term growth
• Competitive package reflective of seniority and experience

Ready to lead an OHL business and drive performance, growth, and safety? Apply now or reach out for a confidential conversation.