Operations Manager - Enabling Works in Milton Keynes

A little bit about us: East West Rail is a nationally significant railway project which aims to deliver much‑needed transport connections for the vibrant communities between Oxford, Milton Keynes, Bedford and Cambridge, which blend beautiful landscapes and a rich cultural heritage with globally renowned centres of education, business, technology and an increasingly dynamic business scene. Together these communities contribute around £111 billion to the national economy each year. However, the lack of good East‑West transport connections makes it harder for residents to make the most of everything the region has to offer. From faster commutes to days out with friends and family, EWR will make it easier to reach the things that matter most, bringing a range of benefits to communities between Oxford and Cambridge, and across the UK more broadly. EWR is also one of the UK’s largest infrastructure projects, which the government committed to delivering in full in the Autumn 2024 Budget, and again in the 2025 Spending Review as part of its ambition to unlock the potential of the Oxford to Cambridge Growth Corridor. EWR is being championed by the Government as a key driver to economic growth leading to a potential £78 billion boost to the UK economy: supporting new towns, housing, and regeneration.

Role Summary: The Enabling Works Operations Manager will oversee the delivery of intrusive surveys, utilities onsite works and other enabling activities, coordinating on‑site operations to ensure safe, efficient, and programme‑aligned delivery. The role supports project development from concept through construction and commissioning, providing operational oversight and assurance of contractor performance as the EWR Co. Client representative. It will require supporting procurement and supplier management, administering NEC ECC contracts, and promoting a strong health and safety culture in line with CDM requirements. The Enabling Works Operations Manager will work closely with project teams, subject matter experts, and contractors to manage delivery constraints such as land access, ecological considerations, and logistics so to maximise the ability of EWR to deliver to cost and schedule.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, manage and coordinate on‑site operational teams delivering surveys, utilities and advanced works.
• Provide client‑side construction management (advisory/strategy/tactical) experience from concept development, through construction (site supervisory) to commissioning.
• Monitor on‑site operational performance against scope, programme and quality requirements.
• Drive Principal Contractor progress and production rate through ongoing office and site assurance.
• Input learned experience of supplier procurement, supplier management and construction performance – from initial strategy through to contract administration – which adds value to planned procurement events.
• Undertake the role of the NEC ECC Supervisor, as required, including monitoring works, verifying compliance with the Works Information/Scope, managing defects processes, and providing site‑based assurance to the Project Manager.
• Maintain a strong H&S culture and knowledge of CDM, providing HSS assurance alongside H&S/CDM advisors.
• Identify operational risks affecting delivery (programme, logistics, land access, safety, ecological etc.) and develop mitigation measures.
• Provide regular reporting on site progress, risks, and operational performance to the project leadership team.
• Act as the operational interface between contractors, designers, environmental teams, and project management functions.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Minimum 10 years experience on infrastructure and construction projects, preferably in the rail industry (desirable not essential).
• HNC/HND or degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Surveying or related discipline.
• NEC ECC experience, fulfilling the role of the Supervisor.
• SMSTS (Site Management Safety Training Scheme) or equivalent site management safety qualification.

Benefits

• Competitive salary that reflects your skills and experience.
• Up to 12 % employer pension contribution to support your future.
• 36 days annual leave (including bank holidays) plus the option to buy up to 2 extra days.
• 2 volunteering days, a chance for you to give back to the community.
• Enhanced family‑friendly policies to support you and your loved ones.
• Life assurance (4x your annual salary) for peace of mind.
• Employee Assistance Programme for confidential support when you need it.
• Access to Perkbox for a wide range of discounts and wellbeing benefits.
• Recognition programme, including on‑the‑spot and annual awards.
• Advanced learning and development opportunities to help you grow.

Diversity and Inclusion

At East West Railway Company, we’re committed to building an inclusive railway for all. We believe that to do that, we must nurture a diverse team that represents the UK communities that we impact. Our approach is simple – to create an environment where everyone is welcome and able to be themselves. We celebrate diversity and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and experiences.