Mechanical Operations Manager – Mechanical Contractor / HVAC in Southampton

An established and highly respected mechanical building services contractor with a strong reputation for delivering high-quality projects across commercial, healthcare, education and public sector environments, with typical project values ranging from £100k to £2m. They are known for providing a supportive, collaborative and enjoyable working environment, with a culture built on teamwork, accountability and continuous improvement. The business places strong emphasis on consistent delivery, development and maintaining long-term relationships with clients and project partners.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Mechanical Operations Manager to join a growing mechanical contracting business in a senior leadership position. As part of the management team, you will be responsible for the operational performance of the business, overseeing all project delivery, commercial control, team development and client management. This role will suit an individual with a strong background in mechanical contracting who can lead multiple project teams, standardise processes, maintain commercial discipline and ensure consistent delivery across multiple projects ranging from £100k to £1m+.

You will work closely with the Managing Director on both day-to-day operations and longer-term planning, playing a key role in strengthening the company's structure and supporting continued growth.

• Lead, mentor and develop the Project Management team, ensuring consistent, high-quality project delivery.
• Oversee day-to-day operations across all live mechanical projects.
• Maintain strong control of financial performance, forecasting, variations, procurement and margins.
• Implement and improve operational processes, project reporting, handover procedures and documentation standards.
• Support commercial reviews, planning, cashflow and monthly board reporting.
• Attend key client meetings, support PMs with client relationships and uphold a high standard of communication and professionalism.
• Ensure compliance with Health and Safety, quality standards and company procedures.
• Plan resources across estimating, design, procurement and project delivery.
• Conduct weekly operations meetings, monthly PM reviews and support annual planning.
• Resolve commercial disputes, final accounts and supply chain issues efficiently.
• Support recruitment, onboarding and training of new PMs and technical staff.

• Strong background in mechanical building services or mechanical contracting.
• Experience managing Project Managers and technical delivery teams.
• A minimum of 15 years within the building services sector, with at least 5 years in a senior operational or project leadership role.
• Strong commercial understanding and project financial control.
• Excellent communication and client-facing skills.
• Highly organised with strong planning and leadership ability.
• Experience delivering multiple projects between £100k and £1m+.

• Salary: £95,000 to £105,000
• Car allowance or company vehicle
• Performance-related bonus
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays, increasing with service
• Pension
• Clear opportunity to progress into a Director-level position as the company continues to grow

If you are an experienced Mechanical Operations Manager, Senior Contracts Manager, Head of Delivery or Operations Director seeking a long-term leadership role within a respected mechanical building services contractor, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please apply online today, or contact Rob at David Leslie Ltd for an informal and confidential discussion.

David Leslie Ltd is a family-run construction recruitment consultancy with over 20 years' experience connecting professionals and employers across the UK. Specialising in the Building, Fit-Out, and M&E Building Services sectors, our approach is built on trust, integrity and long-term partnerships, ensuring both clients and candidates receive a service that is personal, transparent and expertly delivered.