Operations Director - Social Housing in Esher

Who Are We

Cardo Group is a trusted provider of building maintenance, refurbishment, and retrofit services for social housing and public sector buildings across the UK. With nationwide coverage and skilled local teams, we deliver a reliable end-to-end service that ensures homes and public spaces are safe, sustainable, and well‑maintained.

We specialise in responsive repairs and voids, planned maintenance, energy‑efficiency upgrades, compliance works, and major improvement programmes. Our approach combines quality workmanship, strong resident communication, and efficient project delivery to achieve the best outcomes for customers and communities.

Driven by ambitious growth plans, we continue to expand our capabilities and adapt to the evolving needs of our clients. Our reputation is built on consistent service delivery, trusted partnerships, and a commitment to doing things the right way. As we grow, so do the opportunities – for our people, our clients, and the communities we support.

Cardo Group is becoming one of the UK’s most forward‑thinking maintenance and retrofit providers. Do you want to be part of something great?

We are currently looking for an Operations Director to join our team covering Kingston, Crawley, Winchester, and Canterbury.

Role Overview

The Operations Director is responsible for leading and delivering high‑quality housing management, property services, and customer‑focused operations across the organisation’s social housing portfolio. The role ensures compliance, operational efficiency, financial sustainability, and excellent service delivery to residents, while supporting the organisation’s strategic objectives and regulatory obligations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement operational strategies aligned with the organisation’s corporate plan.
• Contribute to overall executive leadership and long‑term business planning.
• Lead organisational change and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure alignment with regulatory standards and sector best practice.
• Oversee housing management services including tenancy management, income collection, ASB, and resident engagement.
• Lead asset management, repairs, maintenance, and planned investment programmes.
• Ensure statutory compliance across all properties (gas, electrical, fire, water hygiene, building safety).
• Drive performance against KPIs and service standards.
• Manage operational budgets and ensure cost control.
• Deliver value for money across all services.
• Contribute to financial planning and risk management.

You Will Need

• Senior leadership experience within social housing or affordable housing.
• Strong knowledge of housing regulation and compliance requirements.
• Proven experience managing large operational budgets.
• Track record of delivering service improvements and transformation.
• Experience reporting to Boards or governance committees.

We Will Provide

• Excellent development and progression opportunities.
• Range of Salary Sacrifice Schemes (holiday purchase, EV schemes, AVC Pension contributions).
• Life Assurance cover.
• Wellbeing Resources and Counselling services.
• Retail & Lifestyle Discount Platform.
• Enhanced Family Leave Provisions.
• Recognition initiatives and awards.
• Occupational Sick Pay.
• Private Medical Insurance.

Please note all our roles are subject to Background, Identity & Security checks before commencement of employment.

Why Join Cardo Group?

We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. Diverse perspectives strengthen our business, drive innovation, and help us better serve the communities we work with.

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion is rooted in our core values:

• Teamwork – We collaborate, support one another, and achieve more together.
• Integrity – We act with honesty, fairness, and transparency in everything we do.
• Excellence – We set high standards and deliver quality for our people and our customers.
• Respect – We value every individual and create a space where all voices are heard.

We ensure fair opportunities, embrace diverse backgrounds and experiences, and foster a culture where everyone truly belongs. Join us on our ambitious, exciting, and inclusive journey.