At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to drive project success and manage high-value contracts.
- Company: Top 100 Main Contractor expanding in Cambridge with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, company car, private healthcare, 30 days holiday, and performance bonuses.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for career growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Join a stable company and make a real impact in a growing region.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in senior management within construction and strong people management skills.
The predicted salary is between 150000 - 180000 £ 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)
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 comprehensive benefits including a competitive salary, private healthcare, and generous holiday allowances, all while fostering a collaborative culture that values leadership and innovation. Join us to lead a talented team in delivering impactful projects and enjoy the unique opportunity to shape the future of construction in your local area.
Contact Details:
Apple Technical Recruitment (UK) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Director in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals, attend events, and join relevant groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on that Operations Director role you’re eyeing.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their work and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to discuss your experience in managing teams and leading projects. Highlight your achievements and how they align with the company's goals—make it personal!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
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 construction sector. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of how you've successfully led teams or managed budgets. This helps us see the impact you've made in previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and concise. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid jargon and get straight to the point. This makes it easier for us to understand your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding your application status!
How to prepare for a job interview at Apple Technical Recruitment (UK)
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Operations Director, you'll need to be comfortable with budgets and financial targets. Brush up on the company's financials and be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed budgets in the past. Highlight specific examples where you maximised profit margins or reduced costs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role involves leading a multidisciplinary team, so be prepared to talk about your leadership approach. Share stories that demonstrate your ability to mentor and develop team members, as well as how you've resolved conflicts or high-stakes project issues in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Client-Facing Scenarios
Since client relationships are key, think of examples where you've successfully managed client expectations or built strong partnerships. Be ready to discuss your experience with bids and tenders, and how you've contributed to winning high-value projects.
✨Understand Health and Safety Standards
Health and safety is crucial in construction. Familiarise yourself with the latest standards and regulations, and be prepared to discuss how you've championed these in your previous roles. Showing your commitment to safety will resonate well with the interviewers.
