Operations Manager

Howells Recruitment; Epping Forest; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking an individual with strong operational management experience in construction or compliance. The role involves selecting and managing contractors, leading project bids, and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards. The ideal candidate is a practical leader committed to teamwork and high standards, with excellent organizational and communication abilities. This position is crucial for maintaining quality service and requires a proactive approach to business development and client engagement.

Qualifications

• Strong experience in operational management within construction or compliance.
• Practical leadership skills with a focus on high standards.
• Familiarity with health & safety, ISO standards, and digital systems.

Responsibilities

• Support the selection and management of contractors.
• Lead bid decisions and support contract planning.
• Manage compliance and oversee project performance.
• Represent the business at networking events.
• Monitor staffing levels and support recruitment.
• Agree budgets and monitor financial performance.

Skills

Operational management

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Customer-focused delivery

Job description

Role Overview

The business provides a range of building and compliance services, including electrical works, fire safety solutions, security systems, and sustainable technologies. Operating mainly within regulated and publicly funded environments, the organisation places strong emphasis on safety, quality, environmental responsibility, and positive community outcomes. Recognised industry accreditations and a carbon‑neutral approach support a commitment to doing things the right way.

Key Responsibilities

Supply Chain & Procurement

• Support the selection and management of contractors and subcontractors
• Work with the Procurement Manager on supplier and material selection
• Monitor subcontractor valuations, variations, and costs
• Agree final accounts with relevant stakeholders

Tenders & Project Delivery

• Lead bid and no‑bid decisions
• Carry out site visits and provide technical input during tender stages
• Support value engineering and contract planning
• Review contract documents, design coordination, and mobilisation
• Set and monitor KPIs and quality standards
• Oversee resourcing and site performance across projects
• Work with the SHEQ team to manage compliance and incidents
• Resolve complaints and oversee defects and snagging processes

IT & Systems

• Oversee company IT systems with support from external consultants
• Make decisions around system use, access, and improvements
• Ensure systems support operational delivery and reporting

Client Engagement & Business Development

• Represent the business at industry and networking events
• Manage key client relationships
• Support the identification of new opportunities and repeat work

Compliance & Quality

• Support internal and external audits
• Help develop and maintain policies, procedures, and quality documents
• Ensure standards are applied consistently across the business

People & Training

• Monitor staffing levels and support recruitment
• Oversee HR processes through the HR system
• Agree development plans and carry out appraisals
• Support a positive, accountable team culture

General & Financial Management

• Support business continuity and fleet management
• Chair operational meetings and drive actions
• Agree budgets and monitor financial performance
• Provide regular operational updates to senior leadership

What We're Looking For

• Strong experience in an operational management role, ideally within construction, building services, or compliance
• A practical leader with good organisational and communication skills
• Experience working with health & safety, ISO standards, and digital systems
• A commitment to teamwork, high standards, sustainability, and customer‑focused delivery

Applications

If you feel that you have the relevant experience to be successful in this position and would like to find out more please apply online today attaching a copy of your current CV. Alternatively contact us on 01474 850707.