At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations and drive innovation in a fast-growing facilities management company.
- Company: Dynamic contract cleaning business with a focus on growth and quality service.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and a positive work culture.
- Why this job: Join a modern company and make a real impact in the facilities management sector.
- Qualifications: Experience at Senior Management or Director level in Contract Cleaning or FM.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a high-performance environment.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We have been engaged by a dynamic, fast-growing contract cleaning and soft facilities management business operating across London to appoint a Director of Operations. Our client manages a diverse portfolio of prestigious contracts, primarily within the corporate, commercial office, and premium residential sectors. This is a senior leadership role responsible for the entire service delivery arm of the business. This position is critical for translating commercial growth into sustainable, profitable, and high-quality service execution.
The successful candidate will lead a multi-layered management team, oversee all contractual obligations, manage significant operational budgets (P&L), and drive innovation in service efficiency and staff engagement. Key areas of accountability include:
- Full P&L responsibility for the Operations division, including budget management, cost control, margin protection, and reporting on KPIs to the MD/CEO.
- Develop and implement operational strategies that support the company’s 3-year growth plan, focusing on scalability and geographic efficiency within London.
- Lead the identification, evaluation, and rollout of operational technology (e.g., T&A systems, digital auditing platforms, robotics) to improve productivity and quality assurance.
- Ensure all client contracts are delivered to the highest standard, meeting or exceeding agreed SLAs and KPIs, and maintaining exceptional client retention rates.
- Establish rigorous quality control processes, conducting regular internal audits across the portfolio, and implementing swift corrective action plans where necessary.
- Oversee mobilisation and demobilisation processes for major new contracts, ensuring seamless transitions and timely resource allocation.
- Lead, mentor, and motivate a large operational management structure (Regional Managers, Area Managers, Supervisors) to achieve business objectives.
- Ensure full legal and internal compliance regarding HR, right-to-work, and staff training (COSHH, H&S).
- Drive a positive, high-performance culture focused on staff welfare, engagement, and continuous professional development.
We are looking for an individual with a track record at Senior Management or Director level within the Contract Cleaning or Soft Facilities Management (FM) sector. This role requires an outward facing & customer first persona, a high level of commercial acumen and a growth mindset. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a modern, high growth and ambitious business.
Director of Operations in England employer: Canopy
Contact Detail:
Canopy Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Operations in England
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join relevant groups on LinkedIn, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks who work at companies you’re interested in. A personal connection can make all the difference when it comes to landing that Director of Operations role.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with recruiters or during interviews, make sure to highlight your experience in managing P&L and driving operational efficiency. Use specific examples from your past roles to demonstrate how you've successfully led teams and improved service delivery. We want to see that you can translate your skills into real results!
✨Prepare for the Interview
Do your homework before any interview! Research the company’s current projects, their culture, and any recent news. This will not only help you tailor your answers but also show that you’re genuinely interested in the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to ask insightful questions that can impress your interviewers.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website for the best chance at landing that job! We’ve got exclusive features and resources that can help you stand out. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and ready to take on the challenges of a Director of Operations.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Operations in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Director of Operations role. Highlight your experience in contract cleaning or soft facilities management, and showcase your leadership skills and P&L management expertise. We want to see how you can drive innovation and efficiency!
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. Talk about your track record in senior management and how you can contribute to our client's growth plans. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to meet SLAs and KPIs. We love numbers, so include metrics that show how you've improved service delivery or client retention rates in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Canopy
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Director of Operations, you'll be expected to manage significant budgets and P&L. Brush up on your financial acumen and be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed budgets in the past. Prepare specific examples that highlight your ability to control costs and protect margins.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role involves leading a multi-layered management team. Be prepared to talk about your leadership philosophy and how you motivate and mentor your team. Share stories that demonstrate your ability to drive a positive culture and achieve business objectives through effective team engagement.
✨Understand the Client's Needs
Since client retention is key, research the company’s current contracts and their service delivery standards. Be ready to discuss how you would ensure these standards are met or exceeded. Highlight any experience you have in maintaining exceptional client relationships and delivering high-quality service.
✨Embrace Innovation
The job requires driving innovation in service efficiency. Familiarise yourself with operational technologies relevant to the sector, such as digital auditing platforms or robotics. Be prepared to discuss how you've implemented new technologies in previous roles to improve productivity and quality assurance.