Operations Manager in England

Cardo Group is a trusted provider of building maintenance, refurbishment, and retrofit services for social housing and public sector buildings across the UK. With nationwide coverage and skilled local teams, we deliver a reliable end-to-end service that ensures homes and public spaces are safe, sustainable, and well-maintained.

We specialise in responsive repairs and voids, planned maintenance, energy‑efficiency upgrades, compliance works, and major improvement programmes. Our approach combines quality workmanship, strong resident communication, and efficient project delivery to achieve the best outcomes for customers and communities.

Driven by ambitious growth plans, we continue to expand our capabilities and adapt to the evolving needs of our clients. Our reputation is built on consistent service delivery, trusted partnerships, and a commitment to doing things the right way.

We are currently recruiting for an Operations Manager to join our team in Slough.

ROLE OVERVIEW

To lead, manage, and continuously improve operational services within the social housing function, ensuring the delivery of safe, well‑maintained homes, excellent tenant experiences, and compliance with all legal, regulatory, and contractual obligations. The Operations Manager will oversee day‑to‑day service delivery, manage performance targets, and foster a culture of customer care, accountability, and continuous improvement.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• SERVICE DELIVERY & PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT
  • Oversee housing operations, including tenancy management, rent collection, repairs, maintenance, and void turnaround.
  • Monitor service delivery against KPIs, SLAs, and regulatory standards (e.g., Regulator of Social Housing, Housing Ombudsman).
  • Develop and implement operational plans to improve efficiency, tenant satisfaction, and value for money.
  • Ensure repairs and maintenance are delivered effectively, prioritising health and safety.
• LEADERSHIP & PEOPLE MANAGEMENT
  • Lead, motivate, and develop operational teams (e.g., housing officers, maintenance staff, customer service teams).
  • Conduct regular one‑to‑ones, appraisals, and training needs analysis.
  • Promote a positive, inclusive, and accountable working culture.
• COMPLIANCE & RISK MANAGEMENT
  • Ensure compliance with housing legislation, health and safety regulations, safeguarding policies, and data protection.
  • Monitor and manage operational risks, escalating where necessary.
  • Ensure all contractors and suppliers meet required quality and safety standards.
• CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT & SERVICE IMPROVEMENT
  • Drive customer‑focused service delivery and tenant engagement initiatives.
  • Respond to escalated complaints and resolve complex tenant issues.
  • Actively use tenant feedback to shape service improvements.
• BUDGET & RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
  • Manage operational budgets effectively, ensuring value for money.
  • Monitor expenditure and report on variances.
  • Negotiate with suppliers and contractors to secure cost‑effective services.

YOU WILL NEED

• Proven track record in housing operations or a related field (social housing, property management, local authority housing).
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent knowledge of housing law, compliance standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Experience in budget management and delivering cost‑effective services.
• Knowledge of asset management, repairs, and maintenance best practice.

WE WILL PROVIDE

• Excellent development and progression opportunities
• 25 days holiday, plus bank holidays
• Range of Salary Sacrifice Schemes (holiday purchase, EV schemes, AVC Pension contributions)
• Car allowance
• Wellbeing Resources and Counselling services
• Retail & Lifestyle Discount Platform
• Enhanced Family Leave Provisions
• Recognition initiatives and awards
• Private Medical Insurance

Please note all our roles are subject to Background, Identity & Security checks before commencement of employment.

WHY JOIN CARDO GROUP?

We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. Diverse perspectives strengthen our business, drive innovation, and help us better serve the communities we work with. Our commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion is rooted in our core values:

• Teamwork – We collaborate, support one another, and achieve more together.
• Integrity – We act with honesty, fairness, and transparency in everything we do.
• Excellence – We set high standards and deliver quality for our people and our customers.
• Respect – We value every individual and create a space where all voices are heard.

We ensure fair opportunities, embrace diverse backgrounds and experiences, and foster a culture where everyone truly belongs. Join us on our ambitious, exciting, and inclusive journey.