Operations Manager (Fire Sprinkler Systems)

ESD Recruitment; Greater London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

ESD Recruitment is seeking an experienced Operations Manager for fire sprinkler systems in London and surrounding areas. You will lead the installation department, manage multiple projects, coordinate labour and subcontractors, and drive profitability while upholding safety standards.

You will work closely with the Operations Director and Technical Director to optimise operations, control budgets, and ensure high-quality, on-time project delivery across the UK.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a senior operations or management role within fire sprinkler or specialist fire protection.
• Strong understanding of sprinkler installation, commissioning and servicing.
• Experience managing multiple projects and operational teams.
• Excellent knowledge of subcontractor management and labour planning.
• Strong commercial awareness including project budgets, cost control and profitability.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day operations of the installation department and oversee multiple projects.
• Ensure projects are delivered safely, on time and within budget.
• Coordinate labour planning and subcontractor allocation across projects.
• Oversee project programmes, installation schedules and resources.
• Review tender allowances and changing project costs with the Technical Director.
• Maintain health and safety standards across all projects and promote a safety culture.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Subcontractor management

Budgeting & cost control

Health & safety compliance

Labour planning

Contract management

Communication

Travel willingness

Driving licence

Job description

Operations Manager – Fire Sprinkler Systems

Location: Site Based (London and surrounding areas) – UK Travel

Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent

Sector: Fire Protection / Sprinkler Systems

About the Company

Our client is an established specialist fire protection contractor delivering sprinkler system installation, servicing, maintenance and commissioning services across the UK.

They are looking to appoint an experienced Operations Manager to lead their operational department, oversee project delivery and ensure the business continues to operate efficiently as it grows.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced fire sprinkler professional to take on a senior management position within an established specialist contractor.

The Role

The Operations Manager will take responsibility for the successful delivery of fire sprinkler installation projects, ensuring works are completed safely, on time, within budget and to the required quality standards.

The successful candidate will oversee project operations, labour planning, subcontractor management, commercial performance, health and safety, and the development of the engineering and site management teams.

Working closely with the Operations Director, Technical Director and other departments, you will play a key role in improving operational efficiency and maintaining profitability across the business.

Key Responsibilities

Operational & Project Management

• Lead and manage the day-to-day operations of the installation department.
• Oversee the successful delivery of multiple sprinkler installation projects.
• Ensure projects are completed safely, on time and within budget.
• Manage Contracts & Quality Managers, Service & Commissioning Engineers and site-based employees.
• Coordinate labour planning and subcontractor allocation across projects.
• Oversee project programmes, installation schedules and operational resources.
• Work closely with design and technical teams to resolve installation issues.
• Monitor project progress and ensure operational updates are completed regularly.
• Ensure accurate as-built drawings and commissioning documentation are produced.
• Coordinate servicing activities, engineer availability and emergency call-outs.
• Review upcoming projects and forward workloads to ensure sufficient labour resources.
• Identify operational improvements to reduce delays and improve productivity.
• Provide technical support to site teams when required.

Commercial & Cost Management

• Oversee project budgets, labour costs and materials expenditure.
• Ensure installation projects achieve the required profit margins.
• Monitor material purchasing, stock usage and wastage.
• Review and approve additional works and subcontractor charges.
• Ensure variations and additional works are correctly priced and recovered from clients.
• Provide accurate project progress information for valuations and invoicing.
• Liaise with the accounts department regarding outstanding payments.
• Manage subcontractor negotiations and review labour rates.
• Review supplier pricing and negotiate improved commercial terms.
• Work with the Technical Director to review tender allowances and changing project costs.
• Identify opportunities to improve operational profitability.

Health & Safety

• Ensure health and safety standards are maintained across all projects.
• Oversee site compliance and safe working practices.
• Review and update risk assessments and method statements (RAMS).
• Ensure toolbox talks and site-specific safety procedures are completed.
• Monitor the performance of engineers and subcontractors regarding health and safety.
• Promote a positive health and safety culture throughout the business.

Staff Management & Development

• Lead recruitment within the operations department.
• Manage and support Contracts Managers, Engineers and other site-based staff.
• Oversee training and development across the department.
• Conduct employee appraisals and performance reviews.
• Manage pay reviews and disciplinary procedures where required.
• Oversee staff holidays, sickness, overtime and working arrangements.
• Ensure teams are adequately resourced and supported to deliver projects successfully.

Candidate Requirements

• Proven experience in a senior operations or management role within the fire sprinkler or specialist fire protection industry.
• Strong technical understanding of sprinkler installation, commissioning and servicing.
• Experience managing multiple projects and operational teams.
• Excellent knowledge of subcontractor management and labour planning.
• Strong commercial awareness, including project budgets, cost control and profitability.
• Experience managing engineers, contracts managers and site-based employees.
• Ability to manage project programmes and coordinate resources effectively.
• Good understanding of health and safety legislation and compliance.
• Strong leadership, organisational and communication skills.
• Ability to identify operational improvements and implement effective procedures.
• Full UK driving licence.
• Willingness to travel to project sites as required.

What's on Offer

• Senior management position within an established specialist contractor.
• Opportunity to lead and develop an operational department.
• Involvement in a wide range of fire protection projects.
• Long-term career progression.
• Direct involvement in business performance and operational strategy.