Operations Manager - #1691909

This is a Full Time/Flexible Working, Permanent vacancy that will close in 18 days at 23:59 BST.

Here at Wates, we have an opportunity for an Operations Manager to join our Property Services Planned team in the Midlands area. This role will focus on projects within the social housing sector, so ideally, we are looking for someone with experience in a similar field.

You will manage a team of Project Managers and Site Managers and direct reports to provide a first-class service to our clients and ensure a sustainable, growing operational service in the Planned Maintenance Division.

The role involves acting as the interface between various clients at monthly review meetings and delivering all contracts to high standards, ensuring KPIs & Health & Safety are maintained to clients' expectations and Wates' standards.

1. Responsible for all regional delivery; building and maintaining an effective and motivated team.


2. Lead the division with an operational and commercial mindset, ensuring the team understands contract obligations and how they can influence profitability.


3. Ensure all projects are set up with proper governance, production control, and regular productivity monitoring.


4. Develop relationships with key clients to ensure contracts run according to the brief and high expectations. Attend client meetings, providing feedback, progress, and KPI data.


5. Procure work by maintaining industry contacts and participating in strategic tender planning.


6. Work with supply chain partners to ensure all Operating Framework compliance details are in place before project commencement.


7. Monitor and approve financial forecasts, ensuring accurate cost planning.


8. Drive compliance and operational excellence at all levels within the division.

To succeed, you should already hold an operational leadership role with experience managing maintenance teams and projects, overseeing all disciplines from bidding to design, planning, and handover within time and budget.

Ability to lead, influence, develop relationships, and proactively manage risks and add value are essential.

Due to the nature of the position, a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) will be required at offer stage. Applicants with criminal convictions will be assessed individually. We do not discriminate based on criminal records or disclosed offenses. Additional pre-employment checks may apply.

Wates is one of the UK’s leading family-owned development, building, and property maintenance companies, founded over 125 years ago. Our purpose is ‘reimagining places for people to thrive,’ guided by promises to promote thriving places, a thriving planet, and thriving people.

We are proud to be recognized as a Gold Investors in People and a Disability Confident employer, committed to fair recruitment processes.

• Best Project - Inside Housing Development Awards


• Winner - 2022 Construction News Awards


• Gold Award - Investors in People 2022


• Gold Award - Considerate Constructors Schemes (CCS) National Site Awards


• Top 50 Employers for Women 2022