Operations Director

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

Job summary

A national infrastructure and utilities services business seeks an Operations Director for the Overhead Line (OHL) division. This role entails strategic leadership with full P&L responsibility, operational oversight, and driving business growth across the UK market while fostering a culture of safety and excellence.

Benefits

Leadership role with strategic influence

Clear route to executive-level progression

Competitive package reflective of seniority and experience

Qualifications

• Proven leadership in the Overhead Line industry (LV to 33kV).
• Experience with P&L responsibility and regulatory landscape.

Responsibilities

• Full operational and commercial control of the OHL division.
• Oversee operational delivery, safety, cost control, and risk management.

Skills

Leadership experience in OHL

Commercial astuteness

Excellent communication skills

Education

Business or technical degree

HNC Electrical Engineering

Job description

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

We’re supporting a national 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

• National 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 anOHL business and drive performance, growth, and safety? Apply now or reach out for a confidential conversation.