Operations Manager

North East Combined Authority; Sunderland; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 35,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working

28 days annual leave

Flexi-time

Bright Exchange access

Employee Assistance Programme

Job summary

Ability Consultants is seeking an Operations Manager to support charities, CICs, schools and social enterprises across the UK. You will manage client accounts, lead a small team, coordinate projects and improve operational processes to deliver high-quality services.

The role involves supporting funding applications, overseeing CRM and reporting, and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders. Hybrid working with a Washington office and home-based setup, salary £30,000–£35,000.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in operations management or similar role.
• Experience managing client relationships, projects and competing priorities.
• Strong leadership to support and motivate a team.
• Excellent organisational, communication and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, CRM systems and project management platforms.

Responsibilities

• Manage client accounts with excellent communication and timely delivery.
• Lead and support a small team, overseeing workloads and performance.
• Coordinate projects, deadlines and operational activities for smooth service delivery.
• Support funding applications and bid writing when required.
• Oversee administration, CRM, reporting and processes.
• Manage organisational communications and social media.
• Build relationships with clients, colleagues, partners and stakeholders.
• Drive continuous improvement by developing efficient systems.

Skills

Client relationships

Team leadership

Operations management

Process improvement

Organisational skills

Communication

MS Office

CRM systems

Project management

Problem solving

Tools

CRM platforms

Project management tools

Job description

Are you an Operations Manager with a passion for supporting charities and purpose-driven organisations to thrive? Do you have a proven track record of managing client relationships, coordinating projects, improving operational processes, and leading a team to deliver outstanding results? If so, we'd love to hear from you.

At Ability Consultants, we support charities, CICs, schools, social enterprises, and community groups across the UK to secure vital funding and deliver lasting impact. Our clients trust us to provide expert fundraising support, helping them focus on what they do best while we secure the resources they need to grow and succeed.

The Role

• Manage client accounts, ensuring excellent communication, timely delivery, and high levels of client satisfaction.
• Lead and support a small team, overseeing workloads, performance, and the delivery of high-quality services.
• Coordinate projects, deadlines, and operational activities to ensure smooth service delivery.
• Support funding applications and bid writing when required, including identifying opportunities and maintaining records.
• Oversee administration, CRM systems, reporting, and organisational processes.
• Manage organisational communications, including shared inboxes and social media.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with clients, colleagues, partners, and stakeholders.
• Drive continuous improvement by developing efficient systems and processes that support business growth.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in operations management, business support, or a similar role.
• Experience managing client relationships, projects, and competing priorities.
• Strong leadership skills with experience supporting and motivating a team.
• Excellent organisational, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
• Confidence using Microsoft Office, CRM systems, and project management platforms.
• The ability to improve processes, manage multiple deadlines, and work independently.
• A professional, proactive, and client-focused approach.
• A passion for supporting charities, community organisations, and purpose-driven businesses to succeed.

Why Join Ability Consultants?

• Salary: £30,000 - £35,000 per annum (FTE)
• Permanent contract
• Hybrid working (Washington office and home working)
• 28 days annual leave (including public holidays)
• Flexi-time
• Access to Bright Exchange and Employee Assistance Programme
• Work with inspiring charities and organisations across the UK
• Join a consultancy with an outstanding Net Promoter Score of 69, reflecting exceptional client satisfaction.

What Our Clients Say

"Without Ability Consultants we wouldn't be where we are today. They go above and beyond for us."

"Significant growth in income and an expert on hand all of the time."

Help good organisations achieve great outcomes. Join Ability Consultants today

Closing date: 29/09/2026 at 23:59*

Interviews: Interviews to take place on a rolling basis

*Please note, that we are recruiting on a rolling basis and may close this vacancy early if a suitable candidate is appointed, so we encourage early applications.

*Previous applicants need not apply