Operations Manager | Infrastructure & Engineering | Heathrow

Operations Manager

📍 Heathrow, West London | £52,000–£55,000 + Company Car

We're working with a growing business looking for an experienced Operations Manager to take ownership of a busy operation in Heathrow.

This is an opportunity for a strong people leader who enjoys being hands-on, improving operational performance and building a team where expectations are clear and people are accountable.

You'll oversee a sizeable team across site and laboratory operations, ensuring resources are used effectively, service delivery targets are met and clients receive a consistently high standard of service.

What you'll be doing:

• Taking ownership of day-to-day operational performance across the business.
• Leading, developing and managing a sizeable operational team.
• Setting clear expectations, managing performance and addressing challenges when they arise.
• Monitoring budgets, forecasting, costs and overall financial performance.
• Overseeing resource planning, scheduling, productivity and equipment utilisation.
• Building strong relationships with clients, including major contractors working on complex projects.
• Driving operational improvements and helping embed a positive, accountable culture.
• Ensuring health and safety, quality and compliance standards are consistently maintained.

What we're looking for:

• Strong operational management experience, ideally with around 10 years in a relevant environment.
• A proven track record of leading sizeable teams and improving operational performance.
• Experience managing budgets, financial performance and ideally P&L.
• Confidence managing client relationships and delivering against contractual commitments.
• A practical, visible leadership style with the ability to motivate teams, manage difficult situations and hold people accountable.
• Understanding of ISO 17025 requirements.
• Experience in one or more of the following sectors: Construction and infrastructure, Materials testing and geotechnical services, Civil engineering, Facilities management and contract services, Engineering and industrial services, Laboratory and testing services & Environmental services

Materials testing experience isn't essential. We're interested in candidates with transferable operational management experience who can bring strong leadership, commercial awareness and a hands-on approach.

Why consider this opportunity?

• A key leadership position within a growing business.
• The chance to make a tangible difference to operational performance and team culture.
• Exposure to major infrastructure projects, including airport, highways and HS2-related work.
• Potential for longer-term career progression as the business continues to expand.
• A salary of £52,000–£55,000 plus a company car.