At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations and shape the future of a growing engineering business.
- Company: Whatley Group, a sixth-generation family business with a proud engineering heritage.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonus, car allowance, private healthcare, and share options.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence business growth and work closely with the Managing Director.
- Why this job: Join a close-knit team and make a real impact on high-profile projects.
- Qualifications: Senior operations experience in utilities or civil engineering; leadership skills are key.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 80000 £ per year.
- Operations Director
- Whatley Group | Pewsey, Wiltshire | Competitive Salary + Benefits
A sixth-generation family business with a proud engineering heritage is entering an exciting new chapter, and they need an outstanding Operations Director to help lead the way.
Following the acquisition of Danbar Drilling, Whatley Group is growing fast.
Specialists in water engineering, borehole drilling, dewatering and ground source heat pumping solutions, the business works on high-profile projects for utilities, major infrastructure clients and private estates, including a multi-million pound role on Hinkley Point.
This is a newly created position.
The Managing Director wants to step back from day-to-day operations to focus on strategic growth, acquisitions and client relationships, and is looking for someone credible, commercial and hands-on to take the reins.
- Why this role
- A genuine leadership opportunity.
You will own operational delivery end to end, from scheduling and resourcing through to pricing and performance, with real autonomy to shape how the business runs.
- Growth you can be part of.
Whatley Group is scaling nationally and building toward larger framework contracts.
You will help build the operational platform that supports that growth.
- A close-knit, high-calibre team.
You will lead a skilled team including lead engineers and drilling specialists, and play a key role in developing people and building a high-performing culture.
- A seat close to the top. Working directly with the Managing Director, you will have real influence over how the business operates and grows.
- Strong reward package. Competitive salary, annual performance bonus, car or car allowance, private healthcare and long-term share options.
- What you will bring
You will have Senior Operations Director or Head of Operations level experience, ideally from utilities, civil engineering, infrastructure, ground engineering or a related specialist contracting background.
Borehole drilling experience is not essential; what matters most is your ability to lead field-based engineering teams, manage multiple operations simultaneously, price work confidently and make sound commercial decisions under pressure.
You are comfortable travelling across the UK, credible in front of clients and engineers alike, and energised by the idea of building something rather than simply maintaining it.
Experience with framework agreements, ISO standards or Constructionline Gold accreditation would be an advantage, but a strong operational leadership track record matters more than a specific industry background.
Above all, you will be a natural fit for a family business culture: visible, approachable, decisive and driven by continuous improvement.
Ready to find out more?
If this sounds like your next move, please contact Nick Wimshurst, Director - Niche Recruitment or apply online
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Operations in Swindon
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Whatley & Co (Pewsey) Ltd, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Director of Operations at Whatley & Co (Pewsey) Ltd.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Operations in Swindon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Whatley & Co (Pewsey) Ltd
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
