Operations Manager Facilities Management

On behalf of our sister company, AEJ Management, we are actively recruiting for an experienced Operations Manager from within the Facilities Management industry...

About AEJ Management Ltd

AEJ Management Ltd is a national provider of soft facilities management services, delivering expert solutions across cleaning, landscaping, estate maintenance, waste management, and SIA-licensed security services. We are now seeking an experienced and highly capable Operations Manager to lead service delivery across 30+ sites in the South of the UK.

About the RoleAs Operations Manager, you will have full responsibility for the day-to-day management, performance, compliance, and financial control of your region. Supported by Service Delivery Managers and site-based teams, you will ensure the consistent delivery of high-quality, safe, and client-focused services across your portfolio.

Location: Field-Based (covering South of the UK - 30+ sites)Salary: £48,000 increasing to £50,000 after successful completion of six-month probationBenefits: Company car (business and personal use), 25 days holiday plus bank holidays, salary sacrifice pension scheme.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Lead and manage multi-disciplined contracts across the region, ensuring high standards of delivery, compliance, and client satisfaction.
• Directly manage and develop a team of Service Delivery Managers and site-based colleagues.
• Act as the senior point of contact for all client relationships within your portfolio.
• Chair regular review meetings with clients to discuss performance, innovation, and future service development.
• Ensure all contracts meet or exceed SLAs, KPIs, and audit standards.

Compliance & Quality

• Maintain operational excellence in line with ISO 9001 and other quality management systems.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement and quality assurance through regular audits and internal reviews.
• Ensure all services, particularly SIA-licensed security operations, comply with the Private Security Industry Act 2001 and company policy.
• Oversee full Health & Safety compliance across all operations, including site risk assessments, reporting, and corrective action tracking.
• Ensure all mandatory qualifications, licences (e.g. SIA), and training records are current and properly maintained.

People Management

• Lead all aspects of regional people management, including:
  • Recruitment, onboarding, and TUPE transfers
  • Inductions, training, and development
  • Absence management and return to work interviews
  • Disciplinary and performance management processes
  • Appraisals and colleague engagement initiatives
• Ensure all people-related processes are in line with company policies and employment legislation.

Commercial & Financial Management

• Own and manage the regional P&L, ensuring financial performance and operational efficiency.
• Work with Finance and Commercial teams to identify savings, deliver cost-effective solutions, and support re-tenders and business development opportunities.
• Oversee timely and accurate submission of reports, client dashboards, and financial documents (e.g. timesheets, expenses).

Contract Mobilisation & Performance

• Manage the mobilisation of new contracts and the demobilisation of outgoing contracts, ensuring a smooth transition aligned with TUPE legislation.
• Monitor and report on site performance, colleague engagement, client satisfaction, and compliance KPIs.
• Maintain accurate site records, operational systems, and ensure workforce scheduling is optimised for efficiency.

Client & Stakeholder Engagement

• Develop and maintain collaborative partnerships with clients, acting as a trusted advisor and escalation point.
• Communicate client risks or concerns to the senior leadership team in a timely and solution-focused manner.
• Represent the company with professionalism and integrity in all external stakeholder communications, including liaison with industry bodies and authorities.

Miscellaneous

• Ensure all activities comply with Data Protection and IT Security policies.
• Contribute to the delivery of the company's wider business plan through operational excellence and team development.
• Perform any other duties reasonably required to meet the needs of the business.

What You'll Bring

• Significant operational management experience within soft FM (cleaning, security, grounds, or related services).
• Strong people leadership and client relationship management skills.
• Excellent commercial awareness and budget management experience.
• Deep understanding of compliance frameworks including SIA regulations, ISO 9001, and H&S legislation.
• A flexible, proactive approach and the ability to travel across your region.

Qualifications

• Essential: IOSH Managing Safely or NEBOSH General Certificate, a Full UK Driving Licence and SIA Licence(s) (Front Line or Non-Front Line).
• Desirable: ILM Level 3+ or CMI, IWFM Level 4+, First Aid at Work, Mental Health First Aid, PRINCE2/APM Project Management, sector-specific NVQs

Why Join AEJ?This is an exciting opportunity to join a forward-thinking organisation where you'll have a real impact and autonomy in your role. We offer a collaborative working environment, national scope, and opportunities for growth and progression.