Operations Manager

David Leslie Ltd; Southampton; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

A respected mechanical services contractor in Southampton is seeking an experienced Mechanical Operations Manager to oversee project delivery and team management. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in mechanical contracting, excellent communication skills, and at least 15 years in the building services sector. The role offers a salary of £90,000 to £105,000, a performance-related bonus, and opportunities for advancement.

Benefits

Car allowance or company vehicle

Performance related bonus

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Qualifications

• Minimum of 15 years in the building services sector, with at least 5 years in a senior role.
• Strong background in mechanical building services.
• Experience managing Project Managers and technical delivery teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop the Project Management team.
• Oversee day to day operations of mechanical projects.
• Maintain control of financial performance and project delivery.

Skills

Mechanical contracting experience

Project financial control

Communication skills

Leadership ability

Job description

Mechanical Operations Manager - M&E Building Services Contractor based just West of Southampton

£90,000 to £105,000 reflective of experience, plus company car or car allowance, performance bonus and benefits package.

About the Company

An established and highly respected mechanical building services contractor with a strong reputation for delivering high quality projects across the commercial, healthcare, education, and public sector environments, with typical project values ranging from £100k up to £2m.

The company promotes a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement, with a focus on consistent delivery, professional development, and maintaining strong relationships with clients and project partners.

The Opportunity

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Mechanical Operations Manager to join a growing mechanical contracting business in a senior leadership position. As part of the management team, you will be responsible for the operational performance of the business, overseeing all project delivery, commercial control, team development, and client management.

This role will suit an individual with a strong background in mechanical contracting who can lead multiple project teams, standardise processes, maintain commercial discipline, and ensure consistent delivery across multiple projects ranging from £100k to £1 million plus.

You will work closely with the Managing Director on both day to day operations and longer term planning, playing a key role in strengthening the companys structure and supporting continued growth.

Key Responsibilities

Lead, mentor, and develop the Project Management team, ensuring consistent, high quality project delivery.

Oversee day to day operations across all live mechanical projects.

Maintain strong control of financial performance, forecasting, variations, procurement, and margins.

Implement and improve operational processes, project reporting, handover procedures, and documentation standards.

Support commercial reviews, planning, cashflow and monthly board reporting.

Attend key client meetings, support PMs with client relationships, and uphold a high standard of communication and professionalism.

Ensure compliance with Health and Safety, quality standards, and company procedures.

Plan resources across estimating, design, procurement, and project delivery.

Conduct weekly operations meetings, monthly PM reviews, and support annual planning.

Resolve commercial disputes, final accounts, and supply chain issues efficiently.

Support recruitment, onboarding, and training of new PMs and technical staff.

Experience and Skills Required

Strong background in mechanical building services or mechanical contracting.

Experience managing Project Managers and technical delivery teams.

A minimum of 15 years within the building services sector, with at least 5 years in a senior operational or project leadership role.

Strong commercial understanding and project financial control.

Excellent communication and client facing skills.

Highly organised with strong planning and leadership ability.

Experience delivering multiple projects between £100k and £1 million plus.

Remuneration Package

Mechanical Operations Manager

Salary : £90,000 to £105,000 reflective of experience

Car allowance or company vehicle

Performance related bonus

25 days holiday plus bank holidays, increasing with service

Pension

Clear opportunity to progress into a Director level position as the company continues to grow

If you are an experienced Mechanical Operations Manager, Senior Contracts Manager, Head of Delivery, or Operations Director seeking a long term leadership role within a respected mechanical building services contractor, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please apply online today, or contact Rob at David Leslie Ltd for an informal and confidential discussion.

About David Leslie Ltd

David Leslie Ltd is a family-run construction recruitment consultancy with over 20 years experience connecting professionals and employers across the UK. Specialising in the Building, Fit-Out, and M&E Building Services sectors, our approach is built on trust, integrity, and long-term partnerships, ensuring both clients and candidates receive a service that is personal, transparent, and expertly delivered.