Operations Director

Cedar; Noordwes; Hybrid; ZAR 1 715 000 - 2 574 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading professional services organisation is seeking an Operations Director to spearhead a firm-wide transformation programme focused on digital enablement, AI adoption, and operational excellence. The successful candidate will lead initiatives simplifying operational processes, champion continuous improvement, and collaborate with senior stakeholders across UK and European divisions. The ideal applicant has a strong background in professional services and proven experience in large-scale transformations.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading large-scale transformation in a professional services or consulting environment.
• Demonstrated expertise in digital enablement, AI, automation, and data-driven process redesign.
• Strong background in Lean Six Sigma with hands-on experience implementing continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Partner with senior leadership to deliver the firm’s transformation agenda.
• Lead enterprise-wide programmes that digitise operational processes.
• Champion continuous improvement using Lean Six Sigma and agile methodologies.

Skills

Digital enablement

AI adoption

Lean Six Sigma

Operational excellence

Continuous improvement

Change leadership

Collaboration

Job description

Cedar has been retained by a leading professional services organisation to appoint an Operations Director to lead a firm‑wide transformation programme focused on digital enablement, AI adoption, and operational excellence.

This is a strategic leadership role for a forward‑thinking transformation leader, not a traditional operations manager. The successful candidate will reimagine how the firm delivers value to clients, modernising its operating model, embedding technology and data capability, and shaping a culture of collaboration, accountability, and innovation.

Location: Leeds (two to three days per week in the office) with UK and European responsibilities

The Role

Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, the Operations Director will act as a trusted strategic partner and notional Chief of Staff, responsible for leading major transformation initiatives while empowering a capable senior team to manage business‑as‑usual operations across PMO, Risk, Facilities, and Governance.

The focus will be on delivering enterprise‑wide change, driving digital transformation, and embedding a continuous improvement mindset across the organisation’s operations in the UK and Europe.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with the COO and senior leadership team to design and deliver the firm’s transformation agenda with a focus on digital, automation, and AI‑enabled improvement.
• Lead enterprise‑wide programmes that simplify, standardise, and digitise operational processes to enhance scalability, transparency, and client experience.
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement using Lean Six Sigma, data‑led decision‑making, and agile methodologies.
• Collaborate with business and technology leaders to implement new platforms that modernise workflows and increase efficiency.
• Empower and develop a strong operational leadership team, ensuring business‑as‑usual functions perform effectively while transformation remains the primary focus.
• Strengthen governance, risk, and compliance frameworks to support innovation while maintaining professional standards.
• Build engagement and alignment across the organisation, inspiring teams through clarity, collaboration, and inclusive leadership.
• Lead effective change communication across multiple offices and practice areas.
• Embed ESG and sustainability principles within operational transformation plans.

Skills and Experience

Essential

• Proven experience leading large‑scale transformation in a professional services or consulting environment.
• Demonstrated expertise in digital enablement, AI, automation, and data‑driven process redesign.
• Strong background in Lean Six Sigma or operational excellence with hands‑on experience implementing continuous improvement.
• Collaborative leader who can mobilise cross‑functional teams and influence senior stakeholders.
• Deep understanding of professional services operations including governance, risk, compliance, and client delivery.
• Strong change leadership skills with the ability to balance strategy and execution.
• Financially astute with experience managing complex budgets and transformation ROI.

Desirable

• Previous experience as an Operations or Transformation Director in a partnership or consulting firm.
• Exposure to AI, automation, or digital workflow technologies in a service‑led business.
• Certification in Lean Six Sigma, Agile, or Change Management.

Leadership and Culture Fit

The organisation is seeking a collaborative and ego‑free leader who can inspire, align, and empower others rather than a technical doer. Success will depend on authenticity, communication, and the ability to build momentum and engagement across senior stakeholder groups.