Operations Manager - Leicester OR Alcester

TN United Kingdom; Leicester; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A purpose-driven organisation is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee impactful employability programmes. This role involves ensuring operational excellence, leading delivery teams, and engaging with stakeholders across the Midlands. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in managing contracts like Restart and Work and Health, along with exceptional leadership and communication skills. Join a collaborative team dedicated to making a difference in the lives of unemployed individuals, with opportunities for professional development and a competitive salary package.

Benefits

Performance Bonus

Professional Development Opportunities

Collaborative Team Culture

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing delivery within employability or public services.
• Strong working knowledge of employability programmes like Restart.
• Effective leadership and people management skills.

Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with programme contracts and performance frameworks.
• Lead and support teams including Team Leaders and Employment Coaches.
• Act as a key point of contact for local and regional stakeholders.

Skills

Management

Operations

People Management

Stakeholder Engagement

Performance Monitoring

Communication Skills

Microsoft Office

Education

Experience in Employability Programs

Knowledge of Welfare Benefits

Tools

Case Management Systems

Job description

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Client:

LT Selection

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Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Reference:

95c29fe3f3ea

Job Views:

13

Posted:

29.04.2025

Expiry Date:

13.06.2025

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Job Description:

Job Description

Operations Manager – Employability & Skills

Location: Leicester or Alcester (with regional travel across the Midlands)
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Salary: From £35,000 per annum + bonus (dependent on experience)

About the Role

LT Selection is proud to be recruiting exclusively on behalf of our client – a purpose-driven organisation committed to delivering impactful outcomes through employability programmes.

We’re seeking a motivated and experienced Operations Manager to oversee the performance and development of delivery teams supporting unemployed individuals through government-funded employability contracts. You’ll play a pivotal role in ensuring operational excellence, team leadership, compliance, and stakeholder engagement across key sites in the Midlands region.

The ideal candidate will have prior experience managing contracts such as Restart, Work and Health, or similar initiatives within the skills and employment space.

Key Responsibilities

Contract Delivery & Operational Oversight

• Ensure full compliance with programme contracts, guidance, and performance frameworks
  

• Build and maintain strong working relationships with Jobcentre Plus, local authorities, employers, and referral partners
  

• Monitor and manage contractual performance, service quality, and financial efficiency
  

• Lead regular internal reporting, performance reviews, and compliance audits
  

• Collaborate with internal and external partners to support participant progression into employment or training
  

• Maintain accurate, audit-ready records and reports across delivery locations
  

• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and promote a quality-driven culture
  

People Management & Leadership

• Lead, coach, and support teams including Team Leaders, Employment Coaches, and Administrators
  

• Conduct regular 1:1s, performance reviews, and observations to support team development
  

• Set clear KPIs and performance expectations in line with contractual outcomes
  

• Foster a high-performing, inclusive team culture that supports staff wellbeing
  

• Support staff with ongoing professional development and CPD activity
  

Stakeholder Engagement

• Act as a key point of contact for local and regional stakeholders
  

• Promote partnership working across the sector to strengthen participant referral pathways
  

• Represent the organisation at meetings, events, and forums as required
  

Operational Excellence

• Ensure each delivery site is well-managed, safe, and compliant with all safeguarding and H&S requirements
  

• Oversee financial claims, reporting schedules, and contribution to budget management
  

• Promote innovation, collaboration, and accountability across delivery
  

About You

Essential

• Proven experience managing delivery within employability, skills, or public services
  

• Strong working knowledge of employability programmes (e.g., Restart, Work and Health)
  

• Effective leadership, coaching, and people management skills
  

• Ability to build partnerships with external agencies, employers, and referral networks
  

• Confident in monitoring performance against KPIs and contract requirements
  

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
  

• Proficient with Microsoft Office and case management systems
  

• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel regionally
  

Desirable

• Knowledge of the local labour market and training providers
  

• Understanding of welfare benefits systems and barriers to employment
  

• First Aid or Mental Health First Aid trained
  

• Experience leading quality or compliance improvements in a contract-led environment
  

Why Join?

• Opportunity to lead impactful work that supports people into meaningful employment
  

• Join a values-led team with a strong culture of collaboration and continuous improvement
  

• Competitive salary with performance bonus
  

• Professional development and leadership growth opportunities
  

Requirements
management, operations, business manager, training, further education