We are seeking an experienced and commercially driven Operations Manager to oversee a £20 million mixed portfolio, specifically within the contract cleaning sector.
This role is responsible for leading multi-site operations, ensuring service excellence, driving profitability, maintaining strong client relationships across a diverse range of contracts (commercial, industrial, and specialist environments) and supporting the team with growth, training and progression.
This is a high-impact leadership role, reporting directly to the Managing Director and is suited to a strategic, results-driven professional who thrives in a fast-paced, service-led environment. You will play a key role in shaping operational excellence and delivering outstanding client value across a significant business portfolio.
Key Requirements
Proven experience in a senior operations role within the contract cleaning or facilities management sector
Demonstrated success managing large-scale, multi-site portfolios (£10M+ preferred)
Strong financial acumen with P&L management experience
Excellent leadership and people management skills
Exceptional client-facing and stakeholder management abilities
Strong understanding of compliance, health & safety, and service delivery standards
Commercially astute with a track record of driving growth and profitability
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
Oversee day-to-day operations across a large, multi-site cleaning portfolio valued at £20 million
Ensure consistent delivery of high-quality cleaning services in line with contractual obligations and KPIs
Implement and maintain best practices, operational efficiencies, and service innovations
Financial Management
Take full P&L responsibility for the portfolio
Manage budgets, control costs, and drive margin improvement
Identify growth opportunities within existing contracts and support new business initiatives
Client Relationship Management
Build and maintain strong relationships with key clients and stakeholders
Act as the primary escalation point for major operational or service issues
Lead contract reviews, renewals, and service expansion discussions
Team Leadership & Development
Lead, motivate, and develop a team of regional/site managers and supervisors
Drive a high-performance culture focused on accountability, engagement, and continuous improvement
Support recruitment, training, and succession planning initiatives
Compliance & Quality Assurance
Ensure full compliance with health & safety, environmental, and industry regulations
Conduct regular audits and inspections to maintain service standards
Implement corrective actions where necessary
Strategic Growth
Contribute to the strategic direction of the business unit
Support tendering and mobilization of new contracts
Identify innovation opportunities including technology, sustainability, and process improvements
Key Requirements
Proven experience in a senior operations role within the contract cleaning or facilities management sector
Demonstrated success managing large-scale, multi-site portfolios (£10M+ preferred)
Strong financial acumen with P&L management experience
Excellent leadership and people management skills
Exceptional client-facing and stakeholder management abilities
Strong understanding of compliance, health & safety, and service delivery standards
Commercially astute with a track record of driving growth and profitability
TE1
Salary description
£95000.00 - £110000.00 per year