Operations Excellence Lead – Defence & Compliance

Bedford Introduction Saab Uk; Old Haversham; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Saab UK is seeking an Operations Manager to lead governance, compliance, and business coordination across the BlueBear operation in Bedfordshire. You will drive continuous improvement, manage risk, and ensure alignment with Saab UK standards and regulatory requirements.

The role requires extensive experience in quality management and security clearances, with a focus on export controls, health and safety, and environmental management within the defence sector.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership skills and ability to drive change within an organisation.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Highly motivated self-starter requiring minimal supervision.
• Experience implementing effective change and risk management policies.

Responsibilities

• Drive continuous improvement to achieve high standards across the organisation.
• Lead compliance with quality management system and standardised processes.
• Coordinate export control, health & safety and environmental management activities.
• Develop and track KPIs aligned to the Strategic Business Plan.
• Capture customer feedback and drive change initiatives.
• Coordinate internal and external audits and business continuity activities.
• Provide training on continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Skills

Leadership

Change management

Communication

Self-motivated

Risk management

Quality Management Systems

ISO 9001

ISO 27001 (desirable)

UK export controls

Health & Safety

Job description

Saab UK is seeking an Operations Manager to lead governance, compliance, and business coordination across the BlueBear operation in Bedfordshire. You will drive continuous improvement, manage risk, and ensure alignment with Saab UK standards and regulatory requirements.

The role requires extensive experience in quality management and security clearances, with a focus on export controls, health and safety, and environmental management within the defence sector.