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: National Security Vetting clearance needed; great opportunity for personal fulfilment.
- Why this job: Make a difference in national security while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership, excellent communication, and experience in change management required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ 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 Irchester 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 Irchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Saab UK on LinkedIn or through industry events. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Saab's values and recent projects. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate how your skills align with their mission in defence and innovation.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your answers to common interview questions, especially around leadership and change management. We want to see how you’ve driven improvements in past roles, so have those examples ready to go!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Saab team.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager - Bedford in Irchester
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 in previous roles. We love seeing quantifiable results, so if you've improved processes or driven performance tracking, let us know! Numbers speak volumes.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
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 security. Familiarise yourself with their operations in Bedford and the specific role of an Operations Manager. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the company.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully driven change or improved processes. Be ready to discuss how you managed risks and implemented compliance standards, as these are key aspects of the role. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Communicate Effectively
Since excellent communication is crucial for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Think about how you would explain complex ideas simply, especially around compliance and operational excellence. You might even want to prepare a few questions to ask the interviewer to demonstrate your engagement.
✨Understand Compliance and Quality Management
Brush up on ISO 9001 and ISO 27001 standards, as well as UK export control and health & safety regulations. Being able to discuss these topics knowledgeably will set you apart from other candidates. Consider how you can contribute to continuous improvement in these areas at Saab UK.
