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- Tasks: Lead Bristol operations, ensuring quality service and customer satisfaction.
- Company: Vehicle Certification Agency, a key player in the automotive industry.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension contributions, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the automotive sector while leading a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Strong technical background and experience in managing teams in a customer-focused environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and development in a collaborative setting.
The predicted salary is between 34500 - 60000 £ per year.
Based in the Vehicle Certification Agency’s Bristol Headquarters, you will be an integral part of our International Operations directorate, ensuring effective delivery and transparent leadership. Managing staff, contractors and supporting regional partners and our offices in the UK and overseas; you will uphold our global policies to achieve a quality service and strong customer satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Leadership - Leading the Bristol operation with enthusiasm, integrity, and decisiveness the post holder will deliver a high quality, efficient service that meets Departmental and Manufacturers expectations.
- Financial Planning - Supporting the Chief Operating Officer with financial planning with particular emphasis on financial reporting, budgetary planning, and forecasting.
- Management and resource planning - Resource planning and deployment aimed at maximizing efficiency and utilization whilst securing the necessary flexibility to support demand at peak periods.
About you
- Strong technical background with significant experience in managing teams that deliver highly technical services within the automotive industry.
- Be skilled in working in a customer-oriented environment.
- Possess the ability to adapt to changing priorities and workload.
- A good working knowledge of all aspects of vehicle technology.
- Extensive experience and understanding of UK, EU, and UN vehicle legislation.
- Expert knowledge of type approval operations and processes.
- Experience of resource and budgetary management involving scheduling of staff, external and internal projects, equipment, facilities, materials, and travel.
- Strong communication and inter-personal skills with the ability to work effectively and collaboratively with colleagues and external parties.
- Strongly analytical, with well-developed problem-solving skills.
- Experience of contract management where services have been delivered through a contractual structure of prime and/or sub-contractors.
- Working experience of ISO 9001 standards, with ISO 17020, ISO 17025 and ISO 9001.
- Proficient in Microsoft platform including Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
- Be a holder of a UK driving licence.
Apply before 11:55 pm on Monday 2nd February 2026.
Head of Bristol Operations employer: Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
Contact Detail:
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Bristol Operations
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the automotive industry and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Vehicle Certification Agency and its operations. Understand their values and how they align with your experience. This will help you showcase your leadership skills and technical knowledge effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your problem-solving skills! Think of examples from your past experiences where you've tackled challenges, especially in resource and budget management. Be ready to discuss these during interviews to demonstrate your analytical abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Bristol Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the job description. Highlight your leadership experience and technical background in the automotive industry to grab our attention!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Head of Bristol Operations role. Share specific examples of how you've led teams and managed resources effectively.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills: We love candidates who can think on their feet! In your application, mention instances where you've tackled challenges or improved processes. This will demonstrate your analytical abilities and adaptability.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of vehicle technology and the relevant legislation. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the requirements of the role, especially in managing teams and delivering technical services.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that showcase your leadership style and how you've successfully led teams in the past. Think about times when you had to make tough decisions or adapt to changing priorities, as these will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Financial Savvy is Key
Since financial planning is a big part of this role, be prepared to talk about your experience with budgetary planning and forecasting. Bring specific examples of how you've managed resources effectively to maximise efficiency.
✨Communication is Crucial
Strong communication skills are essential for this position. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Think about how you've collaborated with colleagues and external partners in the past, and be ready to share those experiences.
