At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage operations for exciting new build projects in Cambridge.
- Company: Top 100 Main Contractor with a strong reputation and stable team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, company car, private healthcare, 30 days holiday, and performance bonuses.
- Other info: Opportunity for career progression and to shape the future of the business.
- Why this job: Join a growing team and make a real impact in the construction industry.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in senior management within main contracting and strong people management skills.
The predicted salary is between 150000 - 150000 £ per year.
A successful aspiring Top 100 Main Contractor operating across the UK from multiple offices is looking to grow its regional presence in Cambridge with the appointment of a new Operations Director. This is a newly created business opportunity for the company as they expand into the Cambridgeshire region. Leadership positions in this business do not present themselves often due to their exceptionally stable staff retention rate. The business is currently looking to grow its talented and long-standing team with an Operations Director who is local to the Cambridge area and has a proven track record in the main contracting market. Our client is a well-respected employer operating on a number of national frameworks with a healthy secured order book for 2026/27.
The successful candidate will be expected to lead a multidisciplinary team of c20 across a selection of New Build projects at various stages in the project lifecycle. Due to the senior nature of this position, previous experience in a client-facing capacity and involvement in bids/tenders and business development would be highly advantageous.
Duties & Responsibilities:- Lead the business operationally to resolve high-stakes project issues and ensure project success.
- Own the regional budget, set ambitious yet achievable revenue targets, manage regional overheads, and maximise gross profit margins.
- Conduct high-level reviews of major regional contracts pre-signature.
- Partner with pre-construction and estimating teams to identify, bid on, and win high-value tenders.
- Lead bids for national frameworks and major partnerships to help secure a predictable, high-performing 3-to-5-year project pipeline.
- Act as the primary point of contact for client relationships.
- Manage Preferred Supplier Agreements with regional subcontractors and suppliers.
- Oversee, recruit, and manage a multidisciplinary team of reports (up to 20), dynamically shifting key personnel where required, while mentoring and supporting professional development.
- Champion exceptional Health and Safety standards.
Our client is looking for a candidate with a stable career history working for a Main Contractor, with at least 5 years in a senior management position and experience managing teams of c20.
Desirable Experience:- Previously held a Senior Management level position within a Main Contractor for at least 5 years.
- Exceptional people management skills and experience leading teams of c.20 staff, including solid technical knowledge of construction delivery, planning, design, and commercial awareness.
- Previous experience in a client-facing capacity and involvement in bids/tenders and business development.
- A motivated and ambitious professional looking to progress their career, grow a business in a new area, and be rewarded for their success.
- Degree in a construction-related field or a comparable construction qualification (NVQ/HNC, etc.).
- MCIOB status would be advantageous.
If you would like more information on this Operations Director position or any other vacancy, please email your current CV to Jess Quinn. It will be reviewed, and you will be contacted within 48 hours if your experience matches our client's requirements.
Operations Director in Cambridge employer: APPLE TECHNICAL RECRUITMENT (UK) LIMITED
As a leading Main Contractor expanding into the vibrant Cambridge region, our company offers an exceptional work environment characterised by stability and growth. With a strong focus on employee development, we provide a comprehensive benefits package including private healthcare, generous holiday allowance, and performance bonuses, ensuring our team feels valued and motivated. Join us to lead a talented multidisciplinary team in delivering high-profile projects while enjoying the unique advantages of working in a dynamic and supportive culture.
Contact Details:
APPLE TECHNICAL RECRUITMENT (UK) LIMITED Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Director in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the construction industry, especially those in Cambridge. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about opportunities that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Show them you know their work inside out and how you can contribute to their success as Operations Director. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Operations Director role. We’re all about connecting talent with opportunity, and we want to see you succeed!
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Director in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Operations Director role. Highlight your experience in managing teams and leading projects, especially in the main contracting market. We want to see how your background aligns with the job description!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your achievements in previous positions and how they relate to the responsibilities listed in the job description.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role involves leading a multidisciplinary team, make sure to emphasise your leadership experience. We love to see how you've mentored others and managed teams effectively, so don’t hold back on those details!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at APPLE TECHNICAL RECRUITMENT (UK) LIMITED
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Operations Director, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key metrics like budget management and profit margins. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed regional budgets in the past and set ambitious revenue targets.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires strong people management skills. Prepare examples of how you've led multidisciplinary teams, resolved conflicts, and mentored staff. Highlight your approach to fostering a positive team culture and ensuring exceptional Health and Safety standards.
✨Be Client-Focused
Since client relationships are crucial, think of specific instances where you've successfully managed client expectations or built long-term partnerships. Be prepared to discuss your experience in a client-facing capacity and how it has contributed to project success.
✨Prepare for Bids and Tenders
Given the importance of winning high-value tenders, review your past experiences with bids and business development. Be ready to explain your strategy for identifying opportunities and leading successful bids, especially for national frameworks.
