Project Operations Manager

Lord Search & Selection; Alfreton CP; On-site; GBP 51,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing engineering business in the UK is seeking a Project Operations Manager to lead commercial and technical projects while preparing for future leadership roles. This is an excellent opportunity for an individual with a technical background and ambitions to grow within the company. The ideal candidate will oversee projects, drive business growth, and collaborate with various teams. Commuting to Derby is required or willing to relocate.

Qualifications

• Technical background essential, ideally with exposure to combustion or gas systems.
• Experience in technical/OEM sales or engineering project management required.
• Confident working across both engineering and commercial functions.

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.

Skills

Technical background

Experience in technical/OEM sales

Engineering project management

Strong initiative

Strategic thinker

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.