Operations Manager in Cheltenham

UK CITIZENSHIP REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION: Yes

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available

TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time

What’s your possible? At Northrop Grumman UK, you are part of a team driving innovation where it matters most – solving tomorrow’s challenges and shaping the technology solutions of the future. It’s what we call Defining Possible. This mindset goes beyond our customer solutions; it’s the foundation for your career development and the impact we have within the community.

About the Opportunity

This is more than just a job; it’s a mission. As the Operations Manager for Northrop Grumman UK, you will play a pivotal role in enabling the integration and optimisation of operations across the UK business. You will act as a senior member of the functional leadership team and deputise for the Director of Operations when required. You will lead projects and programmes that shape how our UK operations function, support digital transformation, and ensure our facilities and operational activities are aligned with business needs across all domains. Working closely with colleagues across the UK and US, you’ll influence organisational strategy, champion continual improvement and ensure operational excellence is delivered consistently.

Role Responsibilities

• Lead the development, approval and execution of a cohesive Northrop Grumman UK facilities strategy.
• Manage and develop the UK facilities team to deliver activities to time, cost and quality.
• Support the creation of a revised operating model for supporting functions including industrial security, HSE, operations and facilities.
• Work with Corporate and UK business development teams to ensure operational requirements are effectively captured in proposal responses.
• Collaborate with US colleagues to enhance project management competence across UK missions.
• Lead risk, opportunity and issue management, chairing the UK risk board and presenting updates to senior leadership.
• Manage UK capital expenditure requirements, including definition, negotiation and approval.
• Act as the central point of contact for US programmes bidding into the UK, representing functional and programme management needs.
• Provide support to MSE subsidiaries and contribute to UK CEO briefing materials as required.
• Participate in the planning and execution of Social Value and Employee Relations activities.

About You – Skills and Experience

Essential:

• Experience of leading complex operational activity across multiple functions or sites.
• Strong organisational, leadership and stakeholder‑management capabilities.
• Experience delivering strategy, governance or business operations in a regulated or technical environment.
• Ability to lead teams through change, improvement and transformation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to hold and maintain the highest level of UK Government security clearance.

Preferred:

• Experience in the defence, security or aerospace sector.
• Familiarity with UK facilities management, HSE or operational compliance frameworks.

If you do not meet every requirement but believe you have the skills and mindset to succeed, we encourage you to apply.

Security Clearance

Due to the nature of our work, you must be a UK national. You must be able to gain and maintain the highest level of UK Government security clearance.

Benefits

• Flexible and hybrid working options, including an optional compressed fortnight with every other Friday off
• Private healthcare
• Cash health plan
• Holiday buy and sell options
• Career development, coaching and mentorship
• Performance‑based bonuses

Why Join Us?

A Mission to Believe In: Every day we contribute to building a more secure and connected world. From advanced mission systems to cutting‑edge digital transformation, what we do together has meaningful impact.

A Place to Belong and Thrive: Every voice matters. Through our employee networks, community partnerships and inclusive culture, you can bring your authentic self to work and grow in a supportive environment.

Your Career, Your Way: Shape your career with diverse opportunities, development pathways and a focus on wellbeing. We’ll help you find the balance that works best for you.

Ready to apply? Yes – Submit your application online. Possibly – Contact us for more information: talentenquiries@uk.ngc.com Not now – Explore other opportunities with us. We’re growing across the UK. Northrop Grumman is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce, and encourages individuals from all backgrounds and all abilities to apply and consider becoming a part of our diverse and inclusive workforce.