Operations Manager

AE Partners; Sunderland; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading fit-out and joinery contractor in the UK is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee operations and drive efficiency. This role involves managing project delivery, ensuring quality control, and leading teams. An ideal candidate will have proven operational management experience, a strong understanding of joinery processes, and excellent leadership skills. Competitive salary and benefits are offered including opportunities for career progression.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits package

Company vehicle or car allowance

28 days annual leave

Opportunities for career progression

Dynamic working environment

Qualifications

• Proven experience in an operational management role within fit-out, construction, or bespoke joinery.
• Strong understanding of joinery manufacturing processes and site-based fit-out operations.
• Commercial awareness and experience managing budgets.

Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end delivery of fit-out and joinery projects.
• Manage production schedules, workshop operations, and site installation teams.
• Identify inefficiencies in operational workflows and implement improvements.

Skills

Operational management experience

Understanding of joinery manufacturing processes

Excellent leadership skills

Strong planning and organisational ability

Commercial awareness

Excellent communication skills

Education

Degree in Construction Management or related field

SMSTS or SSSTS qualification

CSCS black card

Job description

About the Company

We are a specialist fit-out and joinery contractor delivering high-quality commercial, retail, hospitality, and bespoke residential projects across the UK. With a reputation for craftsmanship, attention to detail, and on-time delivery, we are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee day-to-day operations and support our continued growth.

Job Purpose

The Operations Manager will lead and coordinate all operational aspects of the business, ensuring that joinery production and site-based fit-out projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. You will play a key role in managing teams, improving processes, and driving efficiency across production, logistics, project delivery, and health & safety.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Management

• Oversee end-to-end delivery of fit-out and joinery projects, from initial planning to completion.
• Manage production schedules, workshop operations, and site installation teams.
• Ensure all operations are compliant with HSE regulations and internal safety policies.
• Maintain oversight of quality control processes both in the workshop and on-site.
• Work closely with project managers to monitor project progress, risks, and issues.

Resource Planning & Team Management

• Manage and coordinate internal teams including joiners, site supervisors, and subcontractors.
• Schedule labour and materials in line with project timelines and budgets.
• Conduct performance reviews and support staff training and development.

Process Improvement

• Identify inefficiencies in operational workflows and implement improvements.
• Introduce systems or tools to streamline project delivery and reporting.
• Develop and monitor KPIs across departments to ensure performance targets are met.

Client & Stakeholder Liaison

• Support the commercial and estimating teams during project tendering and planning.
• Attend client meetings, ensuring clear communication and expectations are maintained.
• Handle operational issues that arise and provide proactive, solutions-focused leadership.

Budget & Cost Control

• Assist in budget planning and cost tracking for projects and operations.
• Review supplier and subcontractor performance and cost-effectiveness.

Key Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in an operational management role within fit-out, construction, or bespoke joinery.
• Strong understanding of joinery manufacturing processes and site-based fit-out operations.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Strong planning and organisational ability, with attention to detail.
• Commercial awareness and experience managing budgets.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent in Construction Management, Project Management, or related field (preferred).
• SMSTS or SSSTS qualification (essential).
• CSCS black card (essential).
• First Aid at Work (desirable).
• Lean/Six Sigma or similar process improvement training (advantageous).

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Company vehicle or car allowance
• 28 days annual leave (including bank holidays)
• Opportunities for career progression
• Dynamic and supportive working environment