Operations Manager

About the Company:

We are a specialist fit-out and joinery contractor delivering high-quality commercial, retail, hospitality, and bespoke residential projects across the UK. With a reputation for craftsmanship, attention to detail, and on-time delivery, we are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee day-to-day operations and support our continued growth.

Job Purpose:

The Operations Manager will lead and coordinate all operational aspects of the business, ensuring that joinery production and site-based fit-out projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. You will play a key role in managing teams, improving processes, and driving efficiency across production, logistics, project delivery, and health & safety.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Management

• Oversee end-to-end delivery of fit-out and joinery projects, from initial planning to completion.

• Manage production schedules, workshop operations, and site installation teams.

• Ensure all operations are compliant with HSE regulations and internal safety policies.

• Maintain oversight of quality control processes both in the workshop and on-site.

• Work closely with project managers to monitor project progress, risks, and issues.

Resource Planning & Team Management

• Manage and coordinate internal teams including joiners, site supervisors, and subcontractors.

• Schedule labour and materials in line with project timelines and budgets.

• Conduct performance reviews and support staff training and development.

Process Improvement

• Identify inefficiencies in operational workflows and implement improvements.

• Introduce systems or tools to streamline project delivery and reporting.

• Develop and monitor KPIs across departments to ensure performance targets are met.

Client & Stakeholder Liaison

• Support the commercial and estimating teams during project tendering and planning.

• Attend client meetings, ensuring clear communication and expectations are maintained.

• Handle operational issues that arise and provide proactive, solutions-focused leadership.

Budget & Cost Control

• Assist in budget planning and cost tracking for projects and operations.

• Review supplier and subcontractor performance and cost-effectiveness.

Key Skills & Experience:

• Proven experience in an operational management role within fit-out, construction, or bespoke joinery.

• Strong understanding of joinery manufacturing processes and site-based fit-out operations.

• Excellent leadership and team management skills.

• Strong planning and organisational ability, with attention to detail.

• Commercial awareness and experience managing budgets.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Qualifications:

Degree or equivalent in Construction Management, Project Management, or related field (preferred).

SMSTS or SSSTS qualification (essential).

CSCS black card (essential).

First Aid at Work (desirable).

Lean/Six Sigma or similar process improvement training (advantageous).

What We Offer:

Competitive salary and benefits package

Company vehicle or car allowance

28 days annual leave (including bank holidays)

Opportunities for career progression

Dynamic and supportive working environment