Operations Manager (LV/MV Power Systems) in Stoke-on-Trent

Company Description

United Infrastructure is a UK-based infrastructure services company delivering critical energy, power, water, telecoms and social infrastructure projects. Simkiss Group, now part of United Infrastructure, is a leading engineering solutions provider operating across the energy, utilities and infrastructure sectors. With over 25 years of experience and headquartered in Rochdale, Simkiss specialises in the design and build of control systems, control panels and switchgear, delivering installation, testing, commissioning and ongoing maintenance services predominantly within the utilities sector. Following its recent acquisition by United Infrastructure, Simkiss is entering an exciting new phase of growth, strengthening its technical capabilities and expanding its ability to deliver increasingly complex, end-to-end solutions across critical national infrastructure projects.

Job Description

As the Operations Manager, you will be in control of our team of Project Managers and responsible for our project delivery across the country. You will hold ultimate accountability for the successful installation, testing, and commissioning of Low and Medium Voltage switchgear projects and related services required by specific projects. This is a high-impact leadership role requiring a blend of technical electrical expertise, commercial acumen, and the ability to lead a team of Project Managers. You will serve as the primary bridge between our clients and our site delivery teams, ensuring that every project is executed safely, on time, and within budget.

Key Responsibilities

• Project Leadership & Strategy
  • Team Management: Provide direct leadership and mentorship to the Project Management team, ensuring clear KPIs and professional development.
  • Operational Oversight: Review and optimise project programs and schedules to ensure maximum resource efficiency.
  • Site Presence: Conduct frequent site visits nationwide to audit progress, ensure quality standards, and maintain high-level client visibility.
• Client & Stakeholder Management
  • Primary Liaison: Act as the senior point of contact for clients, managing expectations and fostering long-term relationships.
  • Crisis Management: Step in as the lead problem-solver when technical or logistical challenges arise, providing calm and decisive leadership to keep projects on track.
• Financial & Commercial Control
  • Cost Control: Monitor project budgets closely, identifying variances and implementing corrective actions to protect profit margins.
  • Resource Allocation: Manage the deployment of internal labour, equipment and subcontractors to balance workload and minimize downtime.
• HSEQ & Compliance
  • Safety First: Ensure all projects strictly adhere to Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) regulations and company policies. Liaise with head of SHEQ to maintain and safeguard highest HSE standards at project sites.
  • Quality Assurance: Oversee the commissioning phase to ensure all installations meet rigorous technical specifications and regulatory standards.

Candidate Requirements

• Experience: Proven track record in an operations or senior project management role within the Electrical Engineering sector (specifically LV/MV switchgear).
• Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of power distribution systems and the full project lifecycle from installation to final commissioning.
• Communication: First-class verbal and written communication skills.
• Resilience: A "cool head" under pressure with a demonstrated ability in crisis management.
• Mobility: Willingness to travel to project sites, as required, across the country.

Qualifications

Extensive management experience in project oriented Electrical Engineering.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and performance-related bonuses.
• A leadership role with significant influence over the company's growth and operational direction.