Senior Operations Manager Arb Utility and Inland Waterways · ·

UKund Control; Bexhill-on-Sea; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-established grounds maintenance company is seeking a Senior Operations Manager in Arboriculture to lead various vegetation management contracts across Central England. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience and strong leadership skills, with a commitment to safety and operational excellence. The role offers exciting growth opportunities and career development programs, along with a competitive salary and benefits package.

Benefits

23 days holiday, increasing with length of service

Yearly bonus scheme & share options

Robust pension scheme

Free or subsidised national gym memberships

Employee recognition scheme

Two personal choice volunteering days

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in Arboriculture operations and contract management.
• Strong leadership and team development skills.
• In-depth knowledge of Arb safety legislation and industry best practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of Contract Delivery Managers.
• Oversee programme delivery, budgets, and client relationships.
• Champion health and safety across all operations.

Skills

Leadership

Contract Management

Safety Compliance

Communication

Job description

Senior Operations Manager – Arb

Location: Field based in Central England

Salary: Competitive

Contract Type: Permanent

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday-Friday

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Are you an experienced senior leader in Arboriculture looking to take the next step in your career?

Ground Control Ltd is seeking a talented Senior Operations Manager with a proven background in Arb operations to drive the continued success and growth of our Utility Arb division.

What you’ll do:

Reporting directly to the Operations Director, you’ll lead the safe, high-quality, and efficient delivery of our Utility Arboriculture vegetation management contracts. You'll oversee a team of Contract Delivery Managers, setting the standard for operational excellence and delivering on safety, compliance, and commercial performance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and mentor Contract Delivery Managers across multiple Utility Arb contracts
• Mobilise new contracts and embed arboriculture best practices
• Champion health and safety across all operations
• Oversee programme delivery, budgets, and building client relationships
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, regulations, and company values
• Monitor and report on safety, quality, and financial performance

What we’re looking for:

This role is ideal for someone who has direct experience in Arboriculture, with a deep understanding of the sector's safety, operational, and compliance demands.

You’ll Bring:

• Extensive experience in Arboriculture operations and contract management
• Strong leadership and team development skills
• In-depth knowledge of Arb safety legislation and industry best practices
• Commercial acumen, with experience managing budgets and driving efficiencies as well as strong P&L experience
• Excellent communication and client engagement skills
• A track record of delivering results in a fast-paced, safety-critical environment

Why join us:

Career Development Focus: We’re committed to supporting your professional growth with clear career paths, training, and tailored development programs, including our GC Leadership Academy, job-specific accreditations, and higher education opportunities.

Exciting Growth Opportunities: Be part of a rapidly growing company with a dynamic team and expanding client base.

Collaborative Environment: Work in a supportive, engaging, and innovative culture where your contributions are valued.

Competitive Package: Enjoy a competitive salary and benefits package, along with flexible working options, including:

• 23 days holiday, increasing with length of service + bank holidays
• Yearly bonus scheme & share options
• Robust pension scheme
• Medigold employee support, free flu jabs, online private GP service
• Free or subsidised national gym memberships
• Employee recognition scheme
• Two personal choice volunteering days

About Ground Control:

Ground Control is a UK-based grounds maintenance company powered by the latest technology. Since 1973, we have grown rapidly and now provide full national coverage for our customers across the UK and Ireland.

We deliver services including grounds maintenance, winter gritting, landscape construction, design, arboriculture, and electric vehicle charging point installation to over 50,000 commercial properties across the UK.

If you are looking to invest in your future with a business that puts people at the centre of everything, click the apply now button below to speak to a member of our team.

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Equal Opportunities Statement:

At Ground Control, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered. We believe diversity drives innovation and success, and we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and do not discriminate based on age, disability, gender identity, marital status, pregnancy, race, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic. We actively promote an inclusive culture, ensuring fair and equitable treatment throughout the recruitment process and beyond.