Operations Manager

Location: Bristol, Abbey Wood – 60% onsite

Contract: 6 months

IR35: Inside IR35

Rate: £650 per day Umbrella

Security Clearance: SC Clearance required

We are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to support a specialist Defence environment in Bristol. The role sits across closely linked operational and technical teams, supporting the delivery and in-service management of complex weapons and technical systems.

This is an operationally focused role requiring someone who can quickly understand a complex technical environment and manage competing requirements across technical, commercial, logistics and operational stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

Manage day-to-day operational activities within a complex Defence environment.

Support the management of complex weapons and technical systems throughout their lifecycle.

Develop and implement acquisition strategies aligned with Category A Approval requirements.

Plan and oversee tactical development firing trials, ensuring safety, governance and compliance.

Manage suppliers and contracts, including milestones, deliverables and performance.

Support procurement of equipment and services.

Coordinate logistics and equipment delivery, including stock and associated operational processes.

Manage project schedules, budgets, KPIs and delivery performance.

Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies.

Monitor service delivery and undertake supplier/service surveillance.

Coordinate with technical, procurement, legal, logistics and operational teams.

Support systems/equipment integration and development of operational procedures.

Prepare and manage Category A Approval documentation.

Report progress and key issues to senior stakeholders.

Conduct post-trial evaluations and capture lessons learned.

Essential Experience

• Significant Operations Management experience within Defence or a similarly complex technical environment.
• Experience managing contracts, suppliers, deliverables and performance.
• Experience with complex technical systems, equipment or weapons.
• Experience in logistics, stock control or equipment management.
• Strong stakeholder management across technical and operational teams.
• Experience of risk, compliance, quality and service assurance.
• Experience managing schedules, budgets and KPIs.
• Strong understanding of Defence operational processes and governance.
• Current SC Security Clearance.

Desirable Experience

• Previous Defence experience.
• In-service support environment.
• Defence acquisition and Category A Approval.
• Complex weapons systems.
• Development firing trials.
• Engineering, particularly submarine engineering or engineering management.
• Class 1 Officer experience.
• Systems/equipment integration.
• Experience at a senior professional/management level, with responsibility for complex operational, technical and stakeholder requirements.

Interview Process

Interviews will be conducted via Microsoft Teams, with shortlisted candidates progressing directly to the Hiring Manager.