Project Manager - Operations

BRE Group; Watford; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research organization in the UK is seeking an Operations Project Manager to lead operational projects and improve internal processes. This role involves coordinating teams and managing contract-related tasks. Ideal candidates will have project management experience, strong organizational skills, and familiarity with Microsoft Dynamics 365. The position offers a competitive salary and a mostly remote work arrangement with occasional in-office meetings.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Pension scheme

HealthPartners cashback scheme

Free access to online learning platform

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing operational or commercial projects.
• Strong skills in managing multiple workstreams.
• Experience overseeing contract management processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage operational and commercial projects.
• Develop project plans and documentation.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams for strategic priorities.

Skills

Project management

Organizational skills

Process improvement

Communication

Risk management

Tools

Microsoft Dynamics 365

PRINCE2 or Agile

Job description

Make your mark at BRE!

BRE aims to be the world’s leading innovation, science and data hub for the built environment. For more than a century, we have provided government and industry with cutting‑edge research and testing. Join us to help deliver products, advice, services, standards and qualifications used around the globe to make buildings better for people and the environment. Through science‑led solutions to urgent challenges, we will build a thriving and sustainable world.

Your role at BRE

The Operations Project Manager will lead and coordinate operational and commercial projects that support the strategic objectives of the Research & Impact division. This non client facing role is responsible for driving operational efficiency, improving internal processes and supporting the delivery of digital transformation activities.

• Lead and manage operational and commercial projects from initiation through to delivery
• Develop and maintain project plans, timelines, and documentation
• Coordinate cross‑functional teams to ensure alignment with strategic priorities
• Support contract management, commercial reporting, and operational governance activities
• Oversee Microsoft Dynamics 365–related project tasks, including onboarding and workflow improvements
• Identify and mitigate risks, ensuring issues are escalated appropriately
• Drive process improvements and contribute to updates of Standard Operating Procedures
• Provide structured operational support to the Head of Research & Impact Operations.

What we are looking for

• Proven experience managing operational or commercial projects, ideally within a research, technical, or complex organisational environment
• Strong organisational and coordination skills, with the ability to manage multiple workstreams simultaneously
• Experience supporting or overseeing contract management and commercial reporting processes
• Familiarity with business systems such as Microsoft Dynamics 365, including workflow management and documentation
• A track record of driving process improvements and contributing to operational best practice
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams
• Experience working within structured project management frameworks (e.g., PRINCE2, Agile, PMP) or equivalent practical experience
• Confidence in identifying risks, managing project actions, and ensuring timely delivery against agreed timelines
• An adaptable and solutions‑focused approach to supporting operational change and digital transformation.

BRE Benefits

At BRE, we offer a competitive salary, reviewed annually, along with a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your financial security, well‑being, and career development.

Financial & Security Benefits

• Pension scheme – 5% employer‑matched contribution
• Life assurance – 4x your basic salary
• Enhanced maternity package

Health & Wellbeing

• HealthPartners cashback scheme – Reclaim costs on prescriptions, physiotherapy, dental care, and more
• Onsite facilities – Restaurant, nursery, and free parking, including at‑cost EV charging points

Career Development

• Learning & development – Free access to BRE Academy and our online learning platform
• Professional membership reimbursement

For full details on our benefits, visit: BRE Employee Benefits

Work Location Options

Mostly Remote – This role is primarily home‑based, with occasional travel to our head office in Watford for planned meetings (once every two months).

Note to Employment Agencies

At BRE, we value the relationships we have built with our preferred recruitment partners. We do not accept unsolicited CVs from employment agencies. Any CVs submitted directly to a BRE employee or hiring manager without a signed BRE Employment Agency Agreement and an active engagement for the specific role will be considered unsolicited. In such cases, no fees will be payable should the candidate be hired through this or any other means.

Equal Opportunities Statement

BRE is an equal opportunities employer. We assess all qualified applicants based on merit and do not discriminate on the grounds of race, colour, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected characteristics.