Operations Manager in Basingstoke

Operations Manager

Location: Basingstoke
Salary: Competitive
Contract Type: Permanent, 40 hours per week

A role with real ownership, real responsibility and real impact.

If you’re the kind of person who likes running your own patch, being the one people rely on, solving problems before they become issues, and building strong relationships, you’ll feel right at home here. We’re looking for a Contract Manager with experience leading multi‑site operations, whether from facilities management, cleaning, retail, logistics, hospitality, housing, security, utilities or another service‑driven environment.

This is a role where you set the standards, you build the culture, and your decisions shape the performance of your region. You’ll be trusted to lead with autonomy, supported when you need it, and valued for the difference you make every day.

What you’ll do

You’ll take ownership of a portfolio of sites and lead the day‑to‑day delivery of services that keep clients happy and operations running smoothly.

• Own the performance of your region, ensuring every site meets the standards and expectations you set
• Build strong, long‑term client relationships, becoming their trusted partner and go‑to problem solver
• Lead frontline teams and subcontractors, setting clear expectations, giving direction and holding people accountable
• Plan, organise and prioritise work, making sure schedules run smoothly, SLAs are met and safety is never compromised
• Spot opportunities for improvements and extra works, adding value for clients and driving commercial performance
• Handle issues early and confidently, using your judgement to keep standards high and customers satisfied
• Work closely with Regional Operations Directors, HSQE partners and central support teams, while maintaining full ownership of your region’s success.

This is a role where your leadership genuinely matters, the quality of your decisions shows up in real sites, real teams and real customer satisfaction.

What you’ll get

• Autonomy and trust to run your region without micromanagement
• Support from experienced Regional Operations Directors, HSQE partners and central admin teams
• A portfolio where your leadership has visible impact on performance, culture and client relationships
• Opportunities to grow your region, responsibilities and influence
• Hands‑on development through leadership projects, operational challenges and cross‑functional collaboration
• Industry specific training covering all aspects of Grounds Maintenance and Horticulture.
• Competitive package including a company vehicle, private GP, wellbeing support, bonus scheme, volunteering days and recognition rewards

What we’re looking for

Experience managing multi‑site service delivery (FM, cleaning, retail, logistics, hospitality, security, housing, utilities or similar)

A natural leader who sets standards, supports people and follows through on commitments

Someone who enjoys building relationships, gaining trust and becoming the person clients rely on

A calm, practical problem solver who acts early, prioritises well and stays steady under pressure

Commercial awareness, balancing quality, efficiency and added‑value opportunities

A strong sense of ownership, pride and responsibility for your region

A full UK driving licence

About Ground Control

Ground Control is a certified B Corporation, committed to caring for the environment, our people and the communities we serve. Since 1973, we’ve delivered high‑quality services through strong relationships, responsible leadership and a genuine commitment to doing the right thing.

If you’re an Operations Manager from a service‑led background who thrives on ownership, accountability and making things run well, we’d love to hear from you.

Equal Opportunities Statement

At Ground Control, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to thrive. We believe that diversity drives innovation and success, and we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and do not discriminate based on sex, age, disability, gender identity, marital status, pregnancy, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic. We actively support and promote an inclusive culture, ensuring fair and equitable treatment throughout the recruitment process and beyond.