Operations Manager in Chelmsford

1st Step Solutions are supporting a building services engineering company who have an opportunity for an Operations Manager based in Grays, Essex.

Role Overview: The Operations Manager will oversee the operational delivery of the companies’ projects and ensure that the business has the people, systems, resources and processes required to deliver consistently strong results. The successful candidate will combine strong leadership and organisational skills with a practical understanding of MEP construction and project delivery. You will be responsible for improving operational efficiency, supporting project teams, managing resources, monitoring performance and ensuring that projects are delivered in line with programme, budget, quality and client expectations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the day-to-day operations of the business.
• Oversee multiple MEP projects from mobilisation through to completion and handover.
• Ensure projects are properly resourced with labour, materials, plant, equipment and subcontractors.
• Establish and maintain effective operational processes and procedures.
• Identify operational risks, issues and bottlenecks and implement solutions.
• Ensure consistent communication between office, management and site teams.
• Develop systems that improve productivity, accountability and project visibility.
• Support Project Managers and Site Managers in delivering projects successfully.
• Monitor project progress against programme, budget, quality and resource requirements.
• Attend project and progress meetings where required.
• Ensure project teams understand their responsibilities, deliverables and deadlines.
• Assist with resolving technical, programme, commercial and resource-related issues.
• Ensure projects are properly planned and mobilised before works commence.
• Drive successful project completion, commissioning and handover.
• Work closely with the commercial and finance teams to protect project margins.
• Monitor project costs, labour performance, material spend and subcontractor costs.
• Review project performance and identify areas where profitability can be improved.
• Support forecasting, budgeting and resource planning.
• Ensure variations, additional works and commercial opportunities are identified and communicated promptly.
• Challenge inefficiencies, waste and unnecessary expenditure.
• Provide regular operational and commercial reporting to senior management.
• Promote and maintain a strong health and safety culture across all operations.
• Ensure projects comply with company policies, legislation and client requirements.
• Work closely with the Health & Safety team to address risks and ensure appropriate controls are in place.
• Ensure required inspections, documentation and project records are maintained.
• Promote high standards of quality and workmanship across all projects.
• Identify opportunities to improve systems, processes and operational performance.

Requirements:

• Proven experience in an Operations Manager, Senior Project Manager, Contracts Manager or similar senior operational role within the MEP/construction sector.
• Strong understanding of mechanical and electrical building services.
• Proven experience managing multiple projects and teams.
• Experience working for an MEP contractor.
• Strong commercial and financial awareness.
• Excellent leadership and people-management skills.
• Strong organisational and problem-solving ability.
• Experience working with main contractors, clients, consultants and subcontractors.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and work effectively under pressure.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills.
• Good understanding of health & safety, quality and compliance requirements.
• Strong IT and reporting skills.

On Offer:

• Competitive salary
• Performance-related bonus
• Company car / allowance
• Pension scheme
• Career progression opportunities
• Private health care