At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations for a prestigious multi-site portfolio in Central London.
- Company: Join Mitie, the UK's leading facilities management provider.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible holidays, virtual GP access, and a range of lifestyle perks.
- Why this job: Shape culture and performance in a high-expectation environment.
- Qualifications: Proven senior leadership in Facilities Management and strong communication skills.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team making a real impact.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office London onsite. A career‑defining leadership role with the UK’s leading FM provider. This is an opportunity to step into one of our most high‑profile operational leadership roles – shaping the performance, culture and customer experience across a cluster of large, complex, multi‑tenanted buildings in the heart of London.
Why this role matters
As Head of Operations, you’ll lead a fully integrated Total Facilities Management (TFM) service. You’ll bring together M&E, cleaning, catering, porterage and workplace support teams to deliver a seamless, high‑performing service that consistently exceeds expectations. Your leadership will directly influence customer satisfaction, operational excellence, safety performance and the overall success of a flagship contract.
What Makes This Role Exceptional
- A strategic leadership position – you’ll be a key member of the Senior Management Team, working closely with the Account Director and acting as a trusted partner to a high‑expectation client.
- A role with real impact – you’ll shape operational strategy, embed consistent standards across all buildings and cultivate a proactive, customer‑focused culture.
- A platform for professional excellence – this role spans multiple disciplines – from M&E and building services to soft FM, sustainability, incident management and compliance.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the delivery of all TFM services across a prestigious London portfolio.
- Hold daily operational briefings, weekly incident reviews and monthly QSHE forums.
- Drive consistent standards through robust processes, SOPs and work instructions.
- Ensure safe systems of work, statutory compliance and competent teams.
- Build strong, trusted relationships with client representatives.
- Provide clear, credible operational insight and assurance.
- Manage expectations with professionalism and pace.
- Produce monthly operational and performance reports.
- Monitor KPIs, SLAs and budget performance.
- Conduct quality audits and champion continuous improvement.
- Lead, motivate and develop the site management team.
- Embed a culture of accountability, collaboration and customer focus.
- Ensure training, competency and safety standards are consistently met.
- Oversee planned, reactive and project works.
- Coordinate service teams and supply chain partners.
- Ensure accurate data, reporting and information flow across the contract.
What You Bring
- A strong track record of senior leadership within Facilities Management, with extensive hands‑on experience operating at scale.
- Hard and soft services required.
- Strong communication, influencing and stakeholder‑management skills.
- A calm, authoritative presence under pressure.
- Deep understanding of statutory compliance and FM best practice.
- Proven ability to lead diverse teams and deliver exceptional service.
- IOSH Managing Safely (minimum) and IWFM Level 3 Diploma.
- SC clearance preferred, or eligibility to work towards obtaining it.
- NEBOSH and technical FM knowledge desirable.
Why this role stands out
This is more than an operational role — it’s a chance to shape the culture, performance and reputation of a major London contract. You’ll be at the centre of a fast‑paced, high‑expectation environment where your leadership genuinely makes a difference.
Benefits
Our market‑leading offering provides a range of lifestyle benefits. We provide virtual GP access, financial well‑being assistance, flexible holiday options, critical illness insurance, discounted retail, gym and other perks, a cycle‑to‑work scheme, life cover, enhanced pension contributions, a save‑as‑you‑earn scheme and a Mitie Matching Share Plan.
Inclusivity
We are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible to all. If you have a disability or long‑term condition and need reasonable adjustments, please let us know by emailing Karen Hayes.
About Mitie
Since 1987, Mitie’s 80,000 employees have been maintaining companies globally. We are the UK’s leading facilities management and professional services company, with clients ranging from household names in banking, critical government sites, hospitals and schools.
Join our Mitie Team
Together our diversity makes us stronger.
Apply Now
Apply now to join our team.
Head of Operations - FCDO London employer: Mitie Cleaning & Hygiene Services
Contact Detail:
Mitie Cleaning & Hygiene Services Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations - FCDO London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the facilities management sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with your leadership style. This will help you showcase how you can shape the performance and customer experience they’re after.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your vision for operational excellence and how you can lead diverse teams effectively. Confidence is key, so rehearse your answers to common interview questions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to our mission of delivering exceptional service.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operations - FCDO London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Operations role. Highlight your leadership experience in Facilities Management and any relevant qualifications to catch our eye!
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 strategic leadership position. Share specific examples of how you've shaped operational strategies in the past.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves building strong relationships with clients and teams, demonstrate your communication prowess in your application. Use clear, concise language and provide examples of successful stakeholder management.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mitie Cleaning & Hygiene Services
✨Know Your Operations Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the specifics of Total Facilities Management (TFM). Understand how M&E, cleaning, catering, and other services integrate to create a seamless experience. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're ready to lead.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach and how you've successfully managed diverse teams in the past. Think of examples where you've driven operational excellence and fostered a customer-focused culture. This is your chance to shine as a strategic leader!
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle pressure. Prepare scenarios related to compliance, safety performance, and client relationship management. Practising these will help you articulate your thought process clearly during the interview.
✨Highlight Your Commitment to Continuous Improvement
Discuss how you've implemented quality audits and championed continuous improvement in previous roles. Be specific about the results you've achieved and how they align with the expectations of the Head of Operations role. This will show your proactive mindset and dedication to excellence.