Operations Manager

Mears Group; Maidstone; On-site; GBP 53,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to join their Maidstone branch. This pivotal role involves overseeing Facilities Management contracts and leading a dedicated team to deliver exceptional service. You will be responsible for ensuring operational excellence, meeting strategic goals, and managing key stakeholder relationships. The position offers a chance to influence business performance and contribute to the branch's success. If you are a proactive leader with a passion for operational management and a commitment to quality, this opportunity is perfect for you. Join a supportive team that values individuality and fosters professional growth.

Benefits

25 days annual leave + bank holidays

Career growth opportunities

Cycle to Work Scheme

Sharesave Scheme

Eye Test Vouchers

Employee Assistance Programme

Annual Mears Fun Day

Staff perks with Mears Rewards

Volunteering Leave

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion advocacy groups

Qualifications

• Proven experience in operations management within facilities management.
• Strong leadership skills and commercial understanding are essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team delivering high-quality Facilities Management services.
• Ensure all contractual and branch KPIs are met efficiently.
• Manage relationships with stakeholders and drive performance improvements.

Skills

Operations Management

Leadership

Commercial Awareness

Health and Safety Knowledge

Communication Skills

Problem-Solving

Organizational Skills

Education

Experience in Facilities Management

Experience in Social Housing or Care Sectors

Job description

Full Time, Permanent, 40 hours per week Monday – Friday

Salary up to £52,020 per annum, plus, £4,000 car allowance

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced Operations Manager to join our Maidstone branch and support the General Manager in overseeing our Facilities Management contracts and branch operations. As an Operations Manager, you will take a leadership role in the absence of the General Manager, and you will be a key member of the branch’s senior management team. Your primary responsibility will be to manage a team of Facilities Managers and Administration staff to ensure the delivery of outstanding customer service and meet operational and financial objectives.

You will be at the forefront of ensuring operational excellence across the branch, supporting in the delivery of both short-term and long-term strategic goals. The role will require you to be adaptable, proactive, and highly organized, as you will be expected to oversee multiple priorities simultaneously. In addition to your operational responsibilities, you will be directly involved in managing relationships with key stakeholders, driving performance improvements, and supporting financial and commercial outcomes. This role provides the opportunity to lead a dynamic team, influence business performance, and contribute significantly to the continued success and growth of the branch.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage a team delivering high-quality Facilities Management services across a range of sectors, including Water, Gas, Asbestos, Electrical, Fire, and Lifts.
• Ensure all contractual and branch KPIs are met, with a focus on operational efficiency and client satisfaction.
• Collaborate closely with the Compliance Manager and Project Manager to meet SLAs and ensure profitability for the branch.
• Oversee the completion of Reactive, Planned, Statutory, and Non-Statutory preventative maintenance programs within agreed timelines and budgets.
• Monitor, evaluate, and control subcontractors, suppliers, and labour resources to ensure high-quality service and cost control.
• Serve as the primary point of escalation for clients, managing complex or urgent issues as required.
• Attend client meetings to strengthen relationships and ensure the highest level of service delivery.
• Support Facilities Managers in holding monthly meetings with subcontractors and monitoring their performance.
• Ensure all reporting tasks are completed on time, including van checks, post inspections, toolbox talks, and H&S audit actions.
• Act as a champion for Mears Group Policies, Processes, and Systems, promoting adherence to company values across the branch.
• Ensure compliance with SFG20 requirements and contribute to the continuous improvement of health and safety practices.
• Assist the General Manager with the financial application process, chase debts, and implement strategies to improve branch profitability and operational efficiency.
• Develop and implement efficient processes for branch administrative functions and ensure contractual compliance.
• Help manage branch costs, including fleet, purchasing, and resource management.
• Participate in internal Senior Management meetings to report on progress and collaborate on strategy.
• Act as the escalation manager for complex situations, ensuring timely resolution and client satisfaction.

Role Criteria:

• Proven experience in operations management within facilities management, social housing, or social care sectors.
• Strong leadership experience, including managing a team of managers and staff.
• Sound understanding of commercial and financial aspects of contract management.
• In-depth knowledge of health and safety requirements within the sector.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with clients, staff, and external stakeholders.
• High level of organization and attention to detail.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make quick, informed decisions.

Additional Information:

• 25 days annual leave + bank holidays.
• Opportunities for career growth and professional development.
• Cycle to Work Scheme.
• Sharesave Scheme.
• Eye Test Vouchers.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Annual Mears Fun Day – A thank-you event organized by our Executive team.
• Staff perks with Mears Rewards – discounts on coffee, groceries, holidays, and more.
• A supportive and friendly team environment with opportunities to grow within the business.
• Volunteering Leave – Mears encourages employees to participate in community volunteering as part of our social value commitment.
• Opportunity within Mears to be part of a number of advocating groups within Equality, Diversity & Inclusion.

Mears Group recognise our people as our greatest asset, we Hire Individuality, recognising and valuing everyone is individual and ensuring equal access to opportunities for all regardless of social economic background or individual make up.

All our roles require candidates to have the entitlement to work within the UK, Mears does not currently offer visa sponsorship.

Candidates should be aware that all our roles are subject to relevant DBS/Security checks either before commencement of employment.

About Us

We are the people behind the smile! At Mears we look for people who share our vision and values - to make a positive difference to the communities we serve. We do this by improving homes, improving communities and improving lives. We are proud of our business and the opportunities we provide to colleagues working across the UK. Our Values - Customers / Innovation / Teamwork / Responsibility