Senior Operations Manager in Birmingham

As Senior Operations Manager, you will take overall responsibility for the operational delivery of Littlewood Fencing's HS2 projects. You will lead all operational activities across multiple sections, ensuring fencing and associated civil works are delivered safely, on programme, and to the highest quality standards. A crucial part of the role is ownership of operational safety and compliance, ensuring all activities are delivered in accordance with HS2 requirements and client specifications.

Working closely with HS2 principal contractors, project teams, commercial functions, and supply chain partners, you will drive performance, productivity, customer satisfaction, and profitability while maintaining a strong focus on health, safety and environmental excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership across all HS2 operational delivery activities.
• Lead and develop Operations Managers, Project Managers, Site Managers and Supervisors.
• Own operational safety performance, ensuring compliance with HS2 requirements and Network Plus standards.
• Ensure all works are delivered in line with programme, budget and contractual obligations.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with HS2 stakeholders, principal contractors and framework partners.
• Oversee subcontractor performance, ensuring safe, high-quality and cost-effective delivery.
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement, quality and operational excellence.
• Ensure adequate resource planning including labour, plant, materials and supply chain partners.
• Monitor project performance through KPI reporting and operational reviews.
• Work closely with commercial teams to maximise value recovery, control costs and achieve contract P&L targets.
• Ensure all works comply with environmental, sustainability and social value commitments.
• Support tendering, mobilisation and project growth opportunities across the HS2 framework.
• Lead incident investigations and ensure lessons learned are embedded across operations.
• Promote a right-first-time approach and ensure quality standards are consistently achieved.
• Provide regular updates and reports to senior leadership teams.

Experience and Qualifications

• Significant senior leadership experience within infrastructure, construction, rail, highways or utilities sectors.
• Proven experience delivering large-scale projects within major frameworks such as HS2, National Highways, Network Rail or other major infrastructure programmes.
• Strong experience managing operational delivery teams and subcontractor supply chains.
• Demonstrable track record of delivering projects safely, on time and within budget.
• Strong commercial awareness with responsibility for P&L performance.
• Excellent stakeholder management and client relationship experience.
• Detailed knowledge of CDM Regulations and construction health and safety requirements.
• SMSTS qualification.
• CSCS Black Card (desirable).
• Knowledge of fencing, security, civils or infrastructure construction activities.
• Strong planning, people management and leadership skills.
• Experience of driving continuous improvement and operational efficiencies.
• Good computer literacy, including Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook and operational reporting systems, with the ability to produce reports, analyse data and manage project documentation effectively.
• Full UK Driving Licence.

Preferred HS2-Specific Experience

• Experience working within the HS2 supply chain.
• Knowledge of HS2 standards, assurance requirements and permit systems.
• Experience managing works across complex, environmentally sensitive construction sites.
• Understanding of sustainability, social value and environmental commitments associated with major infrastructure projects.

Salary and Benefits

We offer a competitive salary based on experience along with a full benefits package including bonus and car/car allowance.

Network Plus is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate based on race, religion, colour, nationality, sex, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability status, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law. We are Armed Forces-friendly. We welcome applications from ex-Armed Forces personnel, reservists, armed forces veterans, cadet instructors and military spouses/partners.

We understand that privacy and the security of your personal information is extremely important. By applying for this role, you agree to the terms of our privacy policy.

About Littlewood

At Littlewood Group we are a leading force in the UK's security, fencing, and barrier industry, recognised for designing, building, and installing some of the largest and most intricate projects across the country. From initial design and consultation to the final installation, we offer tailored services including planning, engineering, bespoke designs, and ongoing support. Our team works hand-in-hand with clients to ensure the highest standards of safety, reliability, and operational efficiency throughout the entire process.

Whether in the field or behind the scenes, our team plays a key role in executing complex security projects that protect people and property. We pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and collaborative work environment where professional development, teamwork, and job satisfaction are paramount. If you're looking for a rewarding career with real impact, Littlewood is the place for you.