Operations Manager - Vegetation in Chorley

As the Operations Manager for the SPEN Vegetation Management Contract, you will be responsible for the safe, compliant and efficient delivery of vegetation management activities across the SPEN network. This includes managing operational teams and supply chain partners undertaking vegetation clearance, tree cutting, arboricultural works and network resilience activities in proximity to overhead power lines. You will lead the day-to-day delivery of the contract, ensuring all works are completed safely, on time and within budget whilst achieving client KPIs and regulatory requirements. You will build and maintain strong relationships with SPEN stakeholders, local authorities, landowners and environmental agencies. The role requires a strong understanding of vegetation management and Arboriculture operations within the utility sector, together with proven leadership experience managing large operational field teams.

What will your day look like?

• Lead the safe and successful delivery of vegetation management activities across the Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN) contract.
• Oversee programme planning, resource allocation, and operational delivery to meet contractual targets and client expectations.
• Drive operational performance, productivity, and financial efficiency while maintaining strict budget controls.
• Champion a strong health, safety, environmental and quality culture, ensuring full compliance with company, client and industry standards.
• Lead and develop operational teams, supervisors and subcontractors, creating a high-performing and engaged workforce.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with SPEN, landowners, local authorities, regulatory bodies and other key stakeholders.
• Manage contract performance, quality standards, customer issues and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance service delivery.
• Ensure effective management of emergency and reactive works, supporting network resilience and operational excellence across the contract.

About You

• Significant experience managing vegetation management, utility arboriculture or forestry operations.
• Previous experience working on vegetation clearance programmes for electricity network operators.
• Proven experience managing operational budgets and contract performance.
• Experience leading large operational teams and subcontractors.
• Experience working within regulated utility environments.
• Previous experience working on SPEN, DNO or transmission/distribution vegetation contracts.
• Experience managing NEC contracts.
• Experience delivering network resilience or tree risk management programmes.

What’s in it for you?

• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
• Company Car or Car Allowance.
• Private medical cover.
• Company pension scheme.
• Life assurance.
• Private GP Helpline & Health Cash Plan.
• Avove Discount Scheme.
• Family friendly policies.
• A selection of lifestyle benefit options.
• Financial wellbeing programme.
• Employee assistance program for health and wellbeing and onsite mental health first aiders to support our colleagues.
• We love to give back so we offer you volunteering days in your community and charity matched giving where we will boost your fundraising.

About Avove

Avove is a leading infrastructure services provider, delivering critical utility and energy solutions across the UK. With a strong focus on safety, sustainability, and innovation, we specialise in the design, maintenance, and renewal of essential infrastructure for water, energy, and telecoms networks. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we are committed to long-term investment in training, development, and modern equipment to support our teams in delivering high-quality, reliable services for our clients and communities.

We are an equal opportunities employer. At the heart of what we do is a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We celebrate what makes each of us unique and are building a workplace where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered to be their authentic selves. Join us—and take the next step toward a rewarding and inclusive career.