Head of Soft Facilities HMNB Clyde | £55k Per Annum Benefits | ESS Defence, Marine & Aerospace Are you an experienced operational leader with a passion for delivering exceptional Facilities Management services, leading large teams and driving commercial performance? ESS Defence, Marine & Aerospace is seeking a dynamic General Manager to lead the delivery of Soft Facilities Management services at HMNB Clyde , one of the UK's most significant Defence establishments. In this high-profile leadership role, you'll have full responsibility for operational performance, client relationships, financial delivery and people leadership across a workforce of approximately 150 colleagues. Working closely with senior Royal Navy stakeholders, you'll drive service excellence, innovation and continuous improvement while ensuring outstanding customer experiences across the contract.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the delivery of Soft FM services including Accommodation, Cleaning, Waste Management, Portering, Helpdesk and Front of House operations. Build and maintain strong relationships with senior client stakeholders and Royal Navy leadership teams. Hold full P&L responsibility, ensuring financial targets, budgets and profitability objectives are achieved. Drive operational excellence, contract performance and continuous improvement initiatives. Lead, develop and inspire a large multi-disciplinary team, creating a high-performance culture. Champion health, safety, compliance and governance across all service areas. Identify opportunities for innovation, service enhancements and contract growth.
About You
We're looking for a commercially minded leader who can balance strategic thinking with operational delivery. You'll ideally have: Significant experience in a General Manager, Account Manager, Contract Director, Head of Operations or similar senior leadership role. A strong background managing integrated Facilities Management services. Proven P&L management and commercial accountability experience. Experience leading large operational teams within a complex environment. Outstanding stakeholder management and client relationship skills. A track record of delivering operational excellence, customer satisfaction and business growth. Strong knowledge of health & safety, compliance and performance management. A full UK driving licence.
Desirable
Experience within Defence, Government, Marine, Aerospace or other secure environments. IOSH, NEBOSH, IWFM or equivalent professional qualifications. Experience managing large outsourced service contracts and transformation programmes.
Why Join
ESS? This is an exciting opportunity to lead a critical Defence contract, influence strategic decision-making, and make a significant impact within one of Compass Group UK's largest and most prestigious sectors. If you're an inspirational leader with a passion for operational excellence and customer service, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and help shape the future of Facilities Management at HMNB Clyde. Meet Your Recruiter Have a question before you apply? This opportunity is being managed by Connor Connect with Connor on LinkedIn to learn more about the role, the team and life at Compass Group UK&I - Connor Chipman | LinkedIn
Head of Facilities employer: Compass UK & Ireland
As a Cleaning Supervisor at our Defence location, you will join a supportive and inclusive work culture that values your contributions and encourages personal growth. We offer flexible part-time hours, competitive benefits, and a commitment to recognising and rewarding hard work, making it an ideal environment for those seeking meaningful employment while advancing their careers.
