At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations, drive improvements, and ensure compliance in a dynamic defence environment.
- Company: Join Saab UK, a leader in defence innovation with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and opportunities to work on impactful projects.
- Other info: Exciting opportunities for personal fulfilment in a growing organisation.
- Why this job: Make a difference in national security while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership and change management experience required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Saab UK is part of Scandinavia's largest defence company, bringing together the best of Swedish and British innovation. Saab offers world-leading solutions and services in defence, aviation, space, and civil security to keep people and society safe. Our UK presence has been growing at pace, meaning we can offer a wide range of opportunities for personal fulfilment and career growth. We currently employ over 600 people across eight sites in the UK, and our specialisations include software engineering, underwater robotics, radars, AI, and armed forces training.
This role is part of our BlueBear Business in Bedfordshire. The Operations Manager will work across the organisation providing governance, compliance, trials and business coordination support. Process improvement and performance tracking coupled with customer feedback capture to continuously improve BlueBear operations and integration with Saab UK.
Key Responsibilities:- Drive continuous improvement across the organisation to achieve high standards.
- Be the focal point for process standardisation and compliance with the organisations quality management system.
- Be the focal point to Saab UK functions for critical compliance areas including export control, health & safety and security.
- Develop and track KPIs to support the delivery of the organisation's Strategic Business Plan.
- Implement processes for capturing customer feedback, communicate success and track change where required.
- Communicate Operational Excellence throughout the organisation.
- Co-ordinate all internal and external audit activity.
- Act as Risk and Opportunity Co-ordinator and lead all business continuity management activities.
- Co-ordinate compliance activity such as export control ensuring sufficient resources and processes are in place.
- Co-ordinate the implementation of new compliance standards and business support tools.
- Capture and track internal feedback on processes to drive continuous improvements.
- Delivery internal training on continuous improvement / operational excellence where required.
- Champion information management within BlueBear.
- Support internal project activity where required and manage the activities of the Facility Coordinator.
- Proven leadership skills, ability to drive change in the organisation.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Highly motivated self starter who requires minimal supervision.
- Demonstratable experience of implementing effective change in an organisation.
- Proven experience managing risks and implementing risk management policies inc. business continuity plans.
- Experience with implementation Quality Management Systems and compliance with ISO 9001.
- Experience with ISO 27001 desirable.
- Awareness of critical compliance areas including UK export control, health & safety and environmental management desirable.
- Experience with defence industry and UK MOD desirable.
As a National Security Vetting clearance is required for this role, applicants will be required to hold National Security Vetting clearance to SC level or have the ability to gain it.
By submitting an application to Saab UK you consent to undertaking workforce screening activities that may include but are not limited to: Baseline Personnel Security checks, National Security Vetting, reference checks, verification of working rights and in all circumstances preferred candidates will be placed through a security interview.
Operations Manager - Bedford in Aston Clinton employer: Saab UK
Saab UK is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Bedfordshire where innovation meets personal growth. With a strong focus on employee development, we provide numerous opportunities for career advancement and continuous improvement, all while fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence. Join us to be part of a leading defence company that values your contributions and prioritises the safety and security of society.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager - Bedford in Aston Clinton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Saab UK on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Saab's values and recent projects. Show us that you're not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in how you can contribute to their mission of safety and innovation.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your STAR technique for answering behavioural questions. We want to hear about specific situations where you've driven change or improved processes—make those experiences shine!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email reiterating your enthusiasm for the role can keep you fresh in their minds. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager - Bedford in Aston Clinton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Operations Manager role. Highlight your leadership skills and experience in driving change, as these are key for us at Saab UK. Use specific examples that relate to the job description to show how you fit the bill.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how your background aligns with our mission at Saab UK. Keep it concise but impactful, and don’t forget to mention your experience with compliance and quality management systems.
Showcase Your Achievements:When filling out your application, make sure to showcase your achievements. We love to see quantifiable results, so if you've improved processes or driven performance tracking in previous roles, let us know! Numbers speak volumes.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of success. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our company there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Saab UK
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand Saab UK's mission and values, especially in relation to defence and compliance. Familiarise yourself with their operations, particularly in Bedford, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Operations Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully driven change and improved processes in previous roles. Be specific about the outcomes and how they benefited the organisation.
✨Be Ready for Compliance Questions
Given the focus on compliance and quality management systems, brush up on ISO standards and any relevant regulations. Be prepared to discuss your experience with risk management and how you've handled compliance issues in the past.
✨Engage with Customer Feedback
Since capturing customer feedback is crucial for this role, think of ways you've implemented feedback loops in your previous positions. Be ready to share how you used customer insights to drive operational improvements and enhance service delivery.
