At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations to ensure smooth delivery of youth services across Berkshire.
- Company: A values-led charity dedicated to empowering young people for over 85 years.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Opportunity for growth and development in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and help shape the future of young people's lives.
- Qualifications: Experience in operational management within charity or community sectors required.
Our client has supported children and young people across Berkshire for over 85 years; they champion safe spaces, trusted relationships and opportunities that help young people develop confidence, skills and aspirations. They are values-led, inclusive and youth-centred, working with communities, schools, partners and their member network to improve outcomes for young people across Berkshire.
At an exciting time of growth, they are now recruiting for an experienced Operations Manager to join their small, committed team. The Operations Manager is a pivotal senior leadership role within the organisation, responsible for strengthening the operational backbone of the organisation. This role ensures that the organisation’s buildings, systems, people, suppliers and processes operate smoothly, safely and compliantly, enabling high-quality youth work delivery.
The Operations Manager provides strong day-to-day operational leadership and discipline, freeing the CEO to focus on strategy, partnerships and organisational growth. The postholder will be highly organised, practical and accountable, with a strong focus on implementation and follow‑through.
To apply for this role, you will have significant operational management experience in a charity, public sector, education, community or similar environment. You will have demonstrable experience of managing multi‑site operations, facilities or complex operational systems and will have proven experience of workforce planning, operational delivery and implementing organisational change. You will have experience of managing suppliers, contracts and procurement processes and will have a strong understanding of operational compliance, risk management and audit readiness.
Overall, you will be practical, organised and solutions-focused, with the confidence to work across teams and with trustees, suppliers and external partners. If you are interested in applying for this exciting position, please submit your CV in the first instance. Should your experience be suitable, we will send you the full job description and will arrange a call to fully brief you on the role.
At Prospectus we invest in your journey as a candidate and are committed to supporting you with your application. We welcome all candidates to apply, regardless of age, sex/gender, disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, marital status or pregnancy/maternity.
Please note this role will be hybrid-working, based either from Newbury or Reading, with regular travel across Berkshire. Our client is committed to the protection and safeguarding of children, young people and vulnerable adults. Successful candidates will undertake an enhanced DBS check and references.
Operations Manager in Reading employer: Prospectus
Join a values-led organisation that has been making a difference in the lives of children and young people across Berkshire for over 85 years. As an Operations Manager, you will be part of a dedicated team that fosters a supportive and inclusive work culture, offering opportunities for professional growth and development. With a hybrid working model based in Newbury or Reading, you will enjoy a flexible work environment while contributing to meaningful outcomes in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the charity and education sectors. Let them know you're on the lookout for an Operations Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their values and how they operate. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference in the lives of young people across Berkshire.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your operational management scenarios! Think about challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you overcame them. Be ready to discuss your experience with multi-site operations and compliance, as these are key aspects of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any help with your application.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly:Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. It’s packed with info about what they’re looking for, so make sure you understand the key responsibilities and requirements. This will help you tailor your CV and cover letter to match their needs.
Showcase Your Experience:When writing your CV, highlight your operational management experience, especially in similar environments like charities or education. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've managed multi-site operations or implemented organisational change. We want to see how your skills align with what they need!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Avoid jargon and long-winded explanations. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for them to see your qualifications and achievements at a glance. Remember, clarity is key!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, if your experience matches, we’ll reach out to discuss the role further. So, get that CV polished and hit apply!
How to prepare for a job interview at Prospectus
✨Know the Organisation Inside Out
Before your interview, take the time to research the organisation thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and the specific challenges they face in supporting young people. This will not only help you tailor your answers but also show your genuine interest in their work.
✨Showcase Your Operational Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in operational management, especially in similar environments like charities or education. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully managed multi-site operations or implemented organisational change, as this will demonstrate your capability for the role.
✨Prepare Questions That Matter
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about their current operational challenges or how they measure success in their youth work delivery. This shows that you're not just interested in the role, but also in contributing to their mission.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Style
As an Operations Manager, your leadership style is crucial. Be ready to discuss how you lead teams, manage suppliers, and ensure compliance. Use examples that illustrate your practical, organised, and solutions-focused approach to operational leadership.
