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 Role
As 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 probation
Benefits: 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.

THE CLOSING DATE FOR THIS VACANCY WILL BE FRIDAY 25TH JULY