Operations Manager IREF

Johnson Controls; Birmingham; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading HVAC-R company is seeking an experienced Operations Manager for their Industrial Refrigeration portfolio in the UK. You will oversee financial performance, lead a team, and drive market expansion. The ideal candidate has proven experience in industrial refrigeration, strong financial management skills, and a degree in a relevant field. This role offers a flexible location and the opportunity to make a real impact on sustainability.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in Industrial Refrigeration operations, ideally in a senior role.
• Strong background in IREF installation projects and project management.
• Demonstrated success in financial management and commercial strategy.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the full IREF portfolio ensuring delivery aligns with targets.
• Lead strategic operations, identifying risks and opportunities.
• Own full P&L accountability and accurate financial reporting.

Skills

Industrial Refrigeration operations

Financial management

Stakeholder engagement

Leadership skills

Education

Degree in Engineering, Business, or Finance

Project Management certification

Job description

Overview

Operations Manager – Industrial Refrigeration (IREF)
Location: UK (Flexible)

Build your best future with Johnson Controls. We are looking for a strategically minded Operations Manager to lead our Industrial Refrigeration (IREF) portfolio within the UK HVAC-R division. This senior leadership role is pivotal in driving financial performance, operational excellence, and commercial growth.

What you will do

• Oversee the full IREF portfolio, ensuring delivery aligns with financial targets, contract obligations, and customer expectations. Act as a key business partner to senior leadership and Sales, using data‑driven insights to shape strategy, protect margins, and expand our UK market presence.

How you will do it

• Lead strategic operations across the IREF portfolio, identifying risks and opportunities through robust analysis.
• Own full P&L accountability, ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting.
• Produce board-ready performance packs with variance analysis and forecasts.
• Collaborate with Sales to support bids, tenders, and pricing strategies.
• Drive market expansion and operational input into growth initiatives.
• Ensure contracts support profitability and compliance.
• Champion risk governance and a proactive health & safety culture.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team of Project Managers and Engineers.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

What we look for

• Proven experience in Industrial Refrigeration operations, ideally in a senior or strategic role.
• Strong background in IREF installation projects and project management.
• Demonstrated success in financial management and commercial strategy.
• Deep understanding of contract structures, compliance, and UK H&S regulations.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and leadership skills.
• Degree in Engineering, Business, Finance, or related field preferred.
• Project Management certification desirable.

Why Johnson Controls?

At Johnson Controls, we’re shaping the future of smart, sustainable buildings. Join us and be part of a global team that’s making a real impact.

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