At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead training and process standardisation for a high-performing operational workforce.
- Company: Innovative tech company driving the energy transition with green hydrogen solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, car allowance, performance bonus, healthcare, and pension.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on continuous improvement and cultural transformation.
- Why this job: Shape the future of energy systems while promoting operational excellence and safety.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering or operations with strong experience in training and competency frameworks.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
Location: Remote, East London HQ with UK travel
Salary: Competitive + £7K Car allowance + Performance Bonus + Healthcare + Pension
The company: Our client is an innovative UK-based technology company at the forefront of the energy transition, specialising in the production of Hydrogen Fuelled power generators. They are also the largest producer/distributor of green hydrogen in the UK. Working with utilities, infrastructure providers, and major energy users, the company combines advanced monitoring technology with powerful data insights to support smarter decision making and more sustainable operations. With a strong focus on innovation and impact, they are playing a key role in shaping the future of energy systems.
The role: The Head of Operations Excellence (Capability, Training & Process Standardisation) is responsible for developing a highly competent, consistent, and high-performing operational workforce. The role leads the design and implementation of structured training programmes, competency frameworks, and standardised operational processes to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operations across the portfolio. As a Senior Leadership Team member within the Operations Excellence Team, the role plays a key part in embedding a culture of operational discipline, continuous improvement, and excellence.
Duties & Responsibilities:
- Training Strategy & Implementation
- Develop and deliver a comprehensive operations training strategy aligned to business requirements.
- Design and implement training programmes for operational and maintenance teams.
- Ensure alignment with regulatory, OEM, and safety standards.
- Competency Framework & Assurance
- Establish and maintain a formal competency framework for all operational roles.
- Define competency standards, assessment methodologies, and re-certification requirements.
- Implement robust competency assurance processes including assessment, authorisation, and periodic review.
- Provide assurance to senior leadership and board on workforce competency levels.
- Process Standardisation
- Develop and embed standard operating procedures (SOPs) across all sites.
- Drive consistency in critical processes including: Permit to Work systems, Isolation procedures (LOTO), Start-up, shutdown, and emergency response.
- Ensure alignment with safety and regulatory requirements.
- Continuous Improvement & Best Practice
- Lead the development and deployment of continuous improvement methodologies.
- Capture learning from incidents, audits, and performance reviews.
- Facilitate knowledge sharing and best practice replication across sites.
- Safety Culture & Human Performance
- Support the development of a proactive and high-performance safety culture.
- Integrate human performance principles into training and operational practices.
- Work closely with SHEQ leadership to drive behavioural safety improvements.
- Change Management & Cultural Development
- Lead initiatives to embed operational discipline and accountability.
- Drive adoption of new processes, systems, and tools.
- Act as a visible leader promoting operational excellence behaviours.
Key Accountabilities:
- % workforce fully competent and authorised
- Reduction in human error-related incidents
- Audit and compliance performance
- Consistency of operational practices across sites
- Improvement in safety culture metrics
Experience and Qualifications:
- Degree or equivalent experience in engineering, operations, or related field
- Strong experience in operational environments (energy, utilities, industrial sectors)
- Proven experience in training, competency frameworks, or organisational capability development
- Knowledge of safety systems, operational risk, and regulatory requirements
Skills & Competencies:
- Strong leadership and influencing capability
- Excellent communication and coaching skills
- Structured approach to process and governance
- Experience in change management and cultural transformation
- High level of organisational and stakeholder alignment
Head of Operational Excellence employer: People Group
As a leading technology company at the forefront of the energy transition, our client offers an exceptional work environment that fosters innovation and sustainability. With a strong emphasis on employee development, the Head of Operational Excellence role provides opportunities for professional growth through structured training programmes and a commitment to continuous improvement. Located remotely with access to the East London HQ, employees benefit from a competitive salary package, including a car allowance and performance bonuses, all while contributing to a meaningful mission in shaping the future of energy systems.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operational Excellence
✨Get Involved with Industry Events
The energy and utilities sector is always buzzing with events, trade shows, and networking opportunities. We should hit up conferences and exhibitions like Energy UK or Utility Week Live—these are prime spots to mingle with industry professionals and even snag some insider info on job openings!
✨Join Energy-focused Online Communities
Let's tap into online platforms and forums like LinkedIn groups or Reddit communities specifically for energy and utilities. Not only can we showcase our knowledge, but we can also stay updated on company announcements or job leads from people already in the know.
✨Consider Industry Certifications
Pushing ahead with certifications like the NEBOSH National Certificate in Occupational Safety and Health (if you’re into safety) can give us a leg up in this competitive field. It not only builds our credibility but also shows employers that we’re serious about our career in energy and utilities.
✨Apply ThroughPeople Group's Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through People Group's website for the full-time Head of Operational Excellence role. Many companies prioritise candidates who show initiative by going straight to the source. Make sure we tailor our application to highlight our passion for the energy sector!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operational Excellence
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Energy Knowledge:When crafting your CV and cover letter, make sure you highlight any knowledge or experience related to the energy-utilities sector. Whether it’s coursework, internships, or projects that showcase your understanding of energy management, sustainability, or regulatory frameworks, we want to see that passion and expertise shine through.
Quantify Your Achievements:In our field, numbers speak volumes! Don’t just tell us about your previous roles; quantify your achievements where possible. For instance, mention how you improved energy efficiency by a percentage or contributed to cost savings. This makes your application more compelling and shows us just how impactful you can be.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to connect personally with us at People Group. Tailor it to reflect how your values align with our mission in the energy sector. Share why you're excited about this specific role and how you envision contributing to our goals.
Demonstrate Your Team Spirit:Collaboration is key in the energy-utilities industry. In your application, emphasise any team projects or experiences where you worked effectively with others, especially on sustainability initiatives or technical projects. We're looking for someone who can mesh well with our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at People Group
✨Show Your Passion for Renewable Energy
In the energy-utilities sector, it’s vital to demonstrate your enthusiasm for sustainable practices and innovations. Share experiences where you've worked on or studied renewable energy projects, whether that’s through coursework, past internships, or personal initiatives. Let us see how your passion aligns with the ethos of People Group.
✨Brush Up on Industry Regulations
Being familiar with industry standards and regulations is crucial in energy-utilities interviews. Make sure to know the basics of relevant policies and frameworks, like the Energy Act or environmental legislation. This will not only show you’ve done your homework but will also prepare you for potential technical questions about compliance during your interview.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Project Management Skills
Most roles in the energy sector involve collaboration with diverse teams. Be ready to discuss examples where you’ve successfully worked in teams or led projects, especially those involving energy initiatives. This is particularly important for a full-time position, as employers want to see you bring a collaborative spirit to People Group.
✨Prepare for Technical Assessments
Expect some technical questions or even practical assessments during your interview, especially about energy efficiency methodologies or basic engineering principles relevant to the role. It’s a good idea to brush up on key concepts and be prepared to explain them clearly, as this will demonstrate your technical proficiency and readiness to jump into your new role.
