Operations Project Manager

ZipRecruiter; Derby; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing engineering company in Derby is seeking a Project Operations Manager to lead product launches and drive UK business growth. This role offers a clear pathway to senior leadership. The ideal candidate will have a technical background, experience in engineering project management, and a strategic mindset. Ready to step into a high-impact role? Apply now!

Qualifications

• Technical background ideally in combustion or gas systems.
• Confident in both engineering and commercial functions.
• Comfortable in a dynamic SME environment.

Responsibilities

• Oversee key technical sales projects with a commercial focus.
• Work cross functionally across engineering, production and commercial teams.
• Build and strengthen relationships with customers.

Skills

Technical background essential

Experience in technical/OEM sales

Engineering project management

Self-starter with strong initiative

Strategic thinker

Team-oriented approach

Job description

Job Description

Project Operations Manager

Location: Derby, UK

Salary: up to £60k

Overview:

We are exclusively partnering with a growing engineering business to recruit a Project Ops Manager who will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the UK operation. This is a unique opportunity for a technically minded individual with leadership potential to grow into an Operations or Managing Director position over time.

This role will begin with a strong project and commercial focus and will evolve into a senior leadership role as the individual becomes embedded in the business.

Initial Priorities:

1. Lead the success of the sister site - oversee product launch, branding and commercial success.
2. Drive UK business growth - expand activity in local markets and enhance international collaboration.
3. Prepare for a future leadership role - gain an in-depth understanding of operations at the Derby site and broader UK strategy.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee key technical sales projects with a commercial focus.
• Work cross functionally across engineering, production and commercial teams.
• Build and strengthen relationships with existing customers, broadening contact networks.
• Identify and develop new OEM opportunities (organically or via acquisition).
• Collaborate closely with senior leadership across the UK and US divisions.

Ideal Candidate Profile:

• Technical background essential - ideally with exposure to combustion or gas systems.
• Experience in technical/OEM sales or engineering project management.
• Confident working across both engineering and commercial functions.
• Self-starter with strong initiative and long-term vision.
• Comfortable in a dynamic, evolving SME environment.
• Strategic thinker with a hands on, team-oriented approach.

Development Timeline:

• 0-6 months: Learn the business structure and key customers across UK locations.
• By Year 1: Drive new business development and grow revenue base.
• By Year 1.5: Gain operational oversight experience; begin transition into leadership responsibilities.
• By Year 2: Step into a UK leadership role with a focus on strategic growth and people development.

Candidate Preferences:

• Located within commuting distance of Derby or willing to relocate.
• Ambitious, adaptable, and eager to grow into a senior position.

Interested?

If you're ready to step into a high-impact role with a clear leadership pathway, we'd love to hear from you.