Are you an experienced operations leader with a proven track record in welfare-to-work and adult education? We are a rapidly growing employment support and training provider looking for a dynamic Operations Manager to oversee our day-to-day running and drive strategic national growth.
In this role, you will take full ownership of our accredited delivery, build out our funding capabilities, and optimize our systems using advanced AI and CRM tools.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Operational Excellence
* Manage day-to-day business operations and staff schedules to ensure high service quality and met deadlines.
* Lead, recruit, and grow the team, setting clear KPIs and managing performance, reviews, and training.
* Oversee internal HR administration, including tracking punctuality, leave, and conduct via the HR portal.
* Create and embed robust SOPs across all departments to ensure compliance, consistency, and scalability.
Accredited Provision & Funding Growth
* Lead our accredited provision, building a department capable of delivering Adult Education Budget (AEB) contracts at prime level.
* Oversee curriculum development, including training materials, course content, and schemes of work.
* Liaise with awarding bodies to manage approvals, accreditation, and rigorous quality assurance.
* Maintain flawless compliance with DfE, DWP, AEB, and funding body standards for all paperwork and reporting.
Technology, AI & Systems Integration
* Collaborate with IT and AI teams to drive system efficiencies and enhance our website and CRM.
* Translate operational pain points into automated, AI-driven solutions and system improvements.
* Ensure CRM data accuracy to support strict DWP audits, subcontractor management, and employer tracking.
Commercial Strategy & Partnerships
* Develop sustainable commercial income pipelines alongside our funded employability provision.
* Grow our health and social care training pathways, creating a strong talent pipeline for the wider group.
* Build and manage national employer partnerships to secure high-volume vacancies in retail, hospitality, and care.
* Cultivate strategic relationships with the DWP, Jobcentres, combined authorities, and prime contractors.
* Promote the business at government level, leveraging your track record with senior decision-makers.
Bids, Finance & Governance
* Identify new funding opportunities and lead bid writing for upcoming AEB, DfE, and DWP tenders.
* Conduct monthly financial reviews and oversee quarterly invoice and VAT submissions for the accountant.
* Execute flawless audit preparation and maintain meticulous electronic paper trails.
* Drive corporate social responsibility (CSR) and embed social value across all national delivery operations.
What We Are Looking For
* Proven management experience within the UK employability, welfare-to-work, or skills sector.
* Deep knowledge of funding streams, specifically AEB, DfE, and DWP compliance and audit guidelines.
* Strong leadership skills with the ability to performance-manage remote or multi-disciplinary teams.
* A tech-forward mindset, comfortable working with CRM developers and integrating AI efficiencies.
* An exceptional networker capable of influencing prime contractors, stakeholders, and government figures
Salary description
£55000.00 - £65000.00 per year