Field Operations Manager

Field Operations Manager

Kendal Full-Time 43200 - 72000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a team in field operations, ensuring safety and performance across a defined area.
  • Company: Join United Utilities, a thriving FTSE 100 company dedicated to delivering great water services.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 26 days annual leave, a competitive pension, healthcare plans, and gym discounts.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact daily while fostering a culture of safety and continuous improvement.
  • Qualifications: Experience in operational leadership, strong communication skills, and a people-first mindset required.
  • Other info: Be part of a supportive organisation that values diversity and innovation.

The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.

Job Description

About Us

Salary – Competitive Salary

Work Type – Onsite

Job Location – Kendal – Kent House, Mintsfeet Road South, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 6ND

Role Type – Permanent

Employment Type – Full Time

Working Hours

United Utilities’ (UU) purpose is to deliver great water for a stronger, greener and healthier North West of England. We are committed to providing our services in a way that respects the environment, supports the economy, and benefits society.

We value diversity, inclusion and innovation in our workplace, and we foster a culture where our people can grow, excel, and be themselves.

We uphold our ethics, values and business model to fulfil our mission and, by setting clear goals and objectives, we create sustainable long-term value for our colleagues, customers and communities. Whether you work with a team that shares your vision or join a network of peers with similar interests, you will find a welcoming and supportive organisation to be part of.

We’ve got a lot to offer. You’ll be part of a thriving FTSE 100 company and will enjoy a range of core benefits that reflect your value and value contribution.

Benefits

  • A generous annual leave package of 26 days, which increases to 30 days after four years of service (increases one day per year), in addition to 8 bank holidays
  • A competitive pension scheme with up to 14% employer contribution, 21% combined, and life cover
  • Up to 10.5% performance-related bonus scheme, as well as recognition awards for outstanding achievements
  • A comprehensive healthcare plan through our company-funded scheme
  • MyGymDiscounts – gym and wellness benefit that offers up to 25% off on gym memberships and digital fitness subscriptions
  • Best Doctors
  • Salary Finance
  • Wealth at Work courses
  • Deals and discounts
  • EVolve Car Scheme
  • Employee Assistance Plan
  • Mental health first aiders
  • ShareBuy
  • MORE Choices flexible benefits
  • Enhanced parental leave schemes

The Role

Are you a hands-on leader from a field operations background, looking for a role where your decisions make a real difference every day?

At United Utilities, we’re looking for someone who’s confident leading from the front-someone who understands the challenges of frontline operations and knows how to bring people together to deliver great results, safely and efficiently.

You’ll be directing a regional team of network professionals, taking ownership of operational performance, safety, and service delivery across a defined geographical area. Your leadership will directly support our commitment to delivering excellent service to customers, while meeting regulatory and environmental targets.

Key Accountabilties

  • Managing and developing a team of field-based professionals across a defined geographical area, ensuring excellent delivery and operational effectiveness.
  • Taking full accountability for performance, safety, and compliance-ensuring all work meets both internal standards and external regulatory targets, including key Outcome Delivery Incentives (ODIs)
  • Embedding a culture of safety and continuous improvement, driving high standards through coaching, mentoring and effective performance management.
  • Collaborating cross-functionally to ensure seamless service and data-driven decision-making that benefits our people, our assets, and our customers.
  • Acting as a visible and trusted leader in the field, providing clarity, structure, and motivation to your team.

Essential Skills & Experience

  • Proven experience in a field-based or operational leadership role-ideally in utilities, infrastructure construction or engineering.
  • A full UK driving license as travel is expected between sites.
  • A people-first mindset, with strong leadership and communication skills that help you motivate and support others.
  • The ability to manage performance effectively, make sound decisions under pressure, and balance multiple priorities with confidence.
  • A proactive, hands-on approach with a strong focus om safety and doing the right thing.

Interview Process

Our interview process involves 4 main stages:

  • Recruiter Review
  • Hiring Manager Review
  • Initial Call with Talent Acquisition Partner
  • Interview Date: Thurs 28th August 2025. Interview consisting of a presentation, technical leadership, and values interview

We rely on every employee to ensure our customers receive the best possible service, day in, day out. In return, we ensure that you will be well rewarded for your efforts, from an excellent salary through to development opportunities that will really kick start a thriving career here at UU.

Field Operations Manager employer: United Utilities

United Utilities is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and growth of its employees while delivering essential services to the North West of England. With a strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and innovation, the company fosters a supportive work culture where team members can thrive and make a meaningful impact. Employees enjoy competitive benefits, including generous annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and opportunities for professional development, all within a thriving FTSE 100 environment in the picturesque location of Kendal.
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Contact Detail:

United Utilities Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Field Operations Manager

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with United Utilities' mission and values. Understanding their commitment to sustainability and community will help you align your answers during the interview, showcasing how your leadership style fits their culture.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your ability to lead field operations effectively. Highlight instances where you improved safety standards or operational performance, as these are key aspects of the role.

✨Tip Number 3

Research the latest trends in the utilities sector, especially regarding regulatory compliance and environmental targets. Being knowledgeable about current challenges and innovations will show your proactive approach and readiness for the role.

✨Tip Number 4

Network with current or former employees of United Utilities on platforms like LinkedIn. Gaining insights from their experiences can provide you with valuable information to tailor your approach and questions during the interview process.

We think you need these skills to ace Field Operations Manager

Leadership Skills
Operational Management
Performance Management
Safety Compliance
Team Development
Communication Skills
Decision-Making Under Pressure
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Problem-Solving Skills
Proactive Approach
Regulatory Knowledge
Coaching and Mentoring
Data-Driven Decision Making
Customer Service Orientation

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in field operations and leadership roles. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage teams and deliver results, particularly in utilities or infrastructure.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your understanding of United Utilities' mission and values. Emphasise your people-first mindset and how your leadership style aligns with their commitment to safety and operational excellence.

Highlight Key Skills: In your application, focus on essential skills such as performance management, decision-making under pressure, and effective communication. Provide concrete examples of how you've successfully applied these skills in previous roles.

Prepare for the Interview: Research common interview questions for leadership roles in field operations. Be ready to discuss your approach to team management, safety culture, and how you would handle challenges in a fast-paced environment.

How to prepare for a job interview at United Utilities

✨Understand the Company Culture

Before your interview, take some time to research United Utilities' values and culture. They emphasise diversity, inclusion, and innovation, so be prepared to discuss how your own values align with theirs.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As a Field Operations Manager, you'll need strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully led a team, managed performance, and drove operational effectiveness.

✨Prepare for Technical Questions

Expect technical questions related to field operations and safety compliance. Brush up on relevant regulations and best practices in the utilities sector to demonstrate your expertise during the interview.

✨Practice Your Presentation Skills

Since the interview includes a presentation component, practice delivering clear and engaging presentations. Focus on how you can communicate complex information effectively, as this will be crucial in your role.

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