At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead transformation in a family-owned property services group and implement operational improvements.
- Company: Family-owned business in Salford, focused on growth and development.
- Benefits: Hands-on role with significant impact and opportunity for professional growth.
- Other info: Immediate start preferred; significant on-site presence required initially.
- Why this job: Drive meaningful change and prepare a company for divestment in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in business transformation within SMEs and strong stakeholder management skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Location: Salford, Manchester
Contract Type: Interim Contract
Assignment Duration: Initial 6–12 months (subject to project requirements)
On‑Site Requirement: Significant on‑site presence required during the initial stages of the engagement, with flexibility to be agreed as the project progresses.
The company is a family‑owned group of three businesses based in Salford, Greater Manchester, employing approximately 20 people across the group. Following a period of growth, the business has reached a point where its operational structures, management framework and organisational processes require review and development to support the next phase of its evolution. The shareholders are seeking an experienced transformation professional to work closely with them to assess the current organisation, implement operational improvements, establish a sustainable management structure and prepare one of the group companies for divestment.
This is a hands‑on transformation role suited to an experienced consultant, interim executive or operational leader who has successfully delivered change programmes within SME and family‑owned businesses. The successful candidate will conduct a comprehensive review of the group's operations, people, processes and governance structures before developing and implementing a practical roadmap for change. A key objective of the assignment will be to help transition the group from a founder‑led operating model to a more structured and scalable management environment. In parallel, the role will support the preparation and separation of one business entity as part of a planned divestment process. This role requires an individual who is comfortable working both strategically and operationally, engaging directly with owners and employees to drive meaningful and lasting change.
First 60–90 Days
- Review current organisational and operational structures.
- Identify key operational risks, inefficiencies and dependencies.
- Assess management capability, accountability and reporting lines.
- Produce a transformation roadmap with prioritised recommendations.
- Identify requirements for separation and divestment of one group company.
During the Assignment
- Implement agreed organisational and operational improvements.
- Establish appropriate management structures and governance processes.
- Introduce reporting, performance management and accountability frameworks.
- Improve operational efficiency and clarify roles and responsibilities.
- Support leadership development and succession planning.
- Lead preparations required to facilitate the divestment process.
- Work with external advisers where appropriate.
Ideal Candidate
- Significant experience leading business transformation programmes within SMEs or owner‑managed businesses.
- Experience professionalising organisations that have grown beyond founder‑led structures.
- Strong operational and organisational development expertise.
- Demonstrable experience of implementing practical change and delivering measurable outcomes.
- Experience supporting business sales, carve‑outs, divestments or ownership transitions.
- Excellent stakeholder management skills and the ability to work closely with family shareholders.
- A pragmatic, hands‑on approach with a focus on delivery rather than consultancy reports.
Measures of Success
- A clear and sustainable management structure is established.
- Operational processes are documented, improved and embedded.
- Accountability and performance management systems are in place.
- Key business dependencies are identified and addressed.
- One group company is operationally prepared for divestment.
- The shareholders have a clear platform for future growth and succession.
Contract & Assignment Details
- Contract / Interim assignment.
- Significant on‑site presence required, particularly during the diagnostic and implementation phases.
- Based in Salford, Greater Manchester.
- Immediate or short‑notice availability preferred.
Interim COO / Operational Director - property services sector in Nottingham employer: Russam Gms
As a family-owned group based in Salford, Greater Manchester, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment that values each employee's contributions. Our commitment to professional development ensures that team members have ample opportunities for growth while working on meaningful transformation projects that directly impact the future of our businesses. Join us to be part of a dynamic team where your expertise will drive significant operational improvements and shape the next chapter of our evolution.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim COO / Operational Director - property services sector in Nottingham
✨Leverage Your Network
Tap into your existing network in corporate circles—friends, former colleagues, or even acquaintances from industry events. A temporary role often isn't widely advertised, so having someone inside a company like Russam Gms can give you the inside scoop or even a referral.
✨Stay Alert for Short-term Opportunities
Many corporate leadership roles are filled during peak business cycles or project launches. Keep your eyes peeled for announcements or staffing needs from companies like Russam Gms; they might be looking for temporary support during busy times.
✨Showcase Your Flexibility
In temporary roles, adaptability is key. When you're chatting with potential employers, emphasise your ability to quickly adjust to new challenges and demands. Highlight specific instances where you've successfully managed change or stepped into new projects on short notice.
✨Join Corporate Management Forums
Get involved in online corporate management forums or local business groups. Networking in these spaces can help you discover temporary opportunities as well as gather insights about industry trends. Plus, being active in these communities can help you establish yourself as a knowledgeable candidate when applying to places like Russam Gms.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim COO / Operational Director - property services sector in Nottingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Leadership Experience:For a role in corporate leadership management, it’s crucial to emphasise your past leadership experiences. Mention specific projects where you led teams or initiatives, detailing the outcomes and skills you developed. This shows that you understand what it takes to guide a team and deliver results.
Show Your Adaptability for Temporary Roles:Since this is a temporary position, employers will be looking for someone who can hit the ground running. In your cover letter, explain why you're interested in a temporary role at Russam Gms and how your previous experience equips you to adapt quickly to new challenges.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any certifications in project management, team leadership, or similar areas, definitely include them in your CV. These credentials can set you apart from other applicants, showing you’re not just qualified but also committed to your professional growth.
Tailor Your CV to the Company Culture:Take some time to research Russam Gms's values and leadership style. Adjust your CV language and examples to reflect their culture, demonstrating that you're not only a good fit for the job itself but for the organisation as a whole. This adds a personal touch that can really make your application stand out.
How to prepare for a job interview at Russam Gms
✨Show Off Your Leadership Stories
For a temporary role in corporate leadership management, we want to hear your stories! Think of specific examples where you’ve led teams or projects successfully, particularly under tight deadlines or challenging situations. This isn't just about what you did, but how your actions positively impacted the team or the business.
✨Be Ready for Situational Questions
Expect situational interview questions where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving and decision-making skills. Think of common scenarios in corporate settings, like managing a conflict or implementing a new strategy, and practice articulating your thought process and outcomes. This will help show off your ability to navigate corporate complexities.
✨Talk Strategy, Not Just Tasks
In a temporary leadership role, understanding the bigger picture is crucial. Brush up on strategic management principles and be prepared to discuss how you can quickly adapt and contribute to the company's objectives. Consider how you would initiate change or drive efficiency within a limited time frame—this will show that you're ready to hit the ground running!
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Adaptability
Given the temporary nature of this position, we need to see how adaptable you are! Think of examples where you've had to adjust your leadership style or approach based on team dynamics or company culture. We want to know how you can blend in quickly while still making an impact during a short-term engagement.
