Operations Manager

Universal Business Team; Nantwich; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Profit related bonus

Healthcare cash plan

Pension

Job summary

Universal Business Team in Nantwich is seeking a proactive Operations Manager for our client to lead operations, plan and drive improvements across projects, and ensure delivery on time, on budget, and to a high standard.

You will oversee day-to-day operations, optimize processes, manage resources, and partner with finance and commercial teams to boost efficiency, quality, and margins in a growing SME environment.

Job description

Our client, based in Nantwich, are seeking a proactive and hands‑on Operations Manager to lead the operations function to support the continued growth of the business.

The successful candidate will play a key role in planning and delivering project, improving operational efficiency, strengthening processes and standards, and ensuring work is delivered on time, on budget, and to a high quality.

The position would suit someone who enjoys leading people, solving problems on the ground, working closely with finance and commercial colleagues to find better ways of doing things.

This is a senior role within a growing SME environment and will involve both strategic and hands‑on responsibility.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Delivery

• Oversee the day-to-day running of operations across all sites and projects
• Plan, schedule, and allocate resources, labour, and equipment effectively
• Ensure projects and work are delivered on time, on budget, and to the required standard
• Monitor progress and resolve operational issues quickly and effectively
• Act as a key point of contact for customers on escalated operational matters

Planning & Performance

• Develop and track operational KPIs and performance metrics
• Produce regular operational reporting for senior management
• Work with the finance team to monitor project costs, margins, and productivity
• Support capacity planning and forecasting as the business grows
• Contribute to operational strategy and business planning

Process & Efficiency Improvement

• Review and improve operational processes, workflows, and systems
• Identify opportunities for cost savings, waste reduction, and productivity gains
• Introduce clear standards, procedures, and accountability across teams
• Drive the use of systems and technology to improve visibility and control

Team Management

• Lead, motivate, and develop the operations team and supervisors
• Set clear objectives and manage performance, training, and development
• Oversee recruitment, onboarding, and workforce planning for operational roles
• Build a positive, accountable, and safety‑focused team culture

Health & Safety, Quality & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with health and safety legislation and company policies
• Oversee risk assessments, method statements, and site safety standards
• Maintain quality standards and manage any customer complaints or non‑conformances
• Manage suppliers, subcontractors, and key operational contracts
• Maintain IS9001 quality management system and accreditation

What Success Looks Like

• Projects and work consistently delivered on time and on budget
• Remove capacity constraints to growth through efficient in‑house and out sourced production
• Clear visibility of operational performance through KPIs and reporting
• Improved efficiency, productivity, and margins across operations
• A strong health and safety record and culture
• A motivated, capable, and accountable operations team
• Scaleable operational processes that support the growth of the business.

• IOSH Managing Safely or NEBOSH qualification preferred
• A management or leadership qualification (e.g. CMI) would be an advantage
• Candidates with strong practical operational experience will also be considered

• Proven experience in an operations management role, ideally within a project‑based or SME environment
• Strong planning, scheduling, and resource management capability
• Experience of managing and developing teams
• Good commercial awareness, with an understanding of costs, margins, and productivity
• Track record of improving processes and operational efficiency
• Sound working knowledge of health and safety requirements
• Confident with Excel, reporting, and operational systems
• Strong communication, leadership, and problem‑solving skills
• Comfortable operating in a hands‑on SME environment

• Salary- £60,000- £70,000
• Profit related bonus
• Healthcare cash plan
• Pension