Head of Operations

Head of UK Operations

Industrial Services | Energy & Infrastructure

£90,000 + Package

We are leading a confidential search for a Head of Operations on behalf of our industrial services business operating across energy, utilities, and heavy industry.

This is a key leadership hire within a national service line, designed to strengthen operational grip, increase commercial performance, and bring a more visible, front-footed leadership style into the business.

The role carries full responsibility for delivering long-term, contract-led services across multiple UK sites. The environment is complex, compliance-driven, and built around established, high-value client relationships. The expectation is to take control of performance while actively growing the operation.

This role requires regular travel across customer sites nationwide and a high level of visibility within the operation. You will be expected to spend time on-site with teams and clients, maintaining close alignment to delivery, performance, and opportunity.

The role:

• Lead operational delivery across a portfolio of long-term client contracts
• Take full accountability for P&L, margin, and contract performance
• Maintain strong visibility across sites and with clients
• Lead contract reviews, audits, and performance meetings
• Drive compliance, safety, and operational standards
• Strengthen senior client relationships and act as a key point of contact
• Identify and deliver growth opportunities within existing accounts
• Shift the operation towards more proactive, commercially driven performance
• Regional multi-site service delivery model
• Established presence across energy, utilities, and industrial sectors
• Long-term contracts within power generation, water, and bulk materials handling
• Strong base of existing relationships with opportunity to expand

What success looks like:

• Stronger operational consistency across contracts
• Increased client engagement and visibility
• Improved commercial performance and margin control
• Delivery of organic growth within existing accounts
• A more proactive, performance-led operating culture

The person:

• Background in industrial services, engineering, or contract-led environments
• Experience leading multi-site or multi-contract operations
• Proven ability to manage key client relationships
• Strong commercial awareness alongside operational delivery
• Comfortable being on-site, visible, and hands-on

Desirable:

• Experience in energy, utilities, waste-to-energy, or process environments
• Exposure to plant lifecycle management or regulated industries

The package:

• £90,000 basic salary
• 30% bonus target
• £6500 car allowance
• Pension
• Private medical and life assurance
• 25 days holiday plus statutory

This search is being managed on a strictly confidential basis. Further details will be shared following an initial discussion.