Head of Operations

Head of Operations - (Asset-Heavy Infrastructure)

Permanent | Hybrid - Theale

Are you an experienced operational leader with a track record of delivering large-scale infrastructure (rail, utilities or other asset-heavy infrastructure) programmes?

We're looking for an inspiring Head of Operations to lead a high-performing operational function, driving strategic delivery, operational excellence and business transformation across a complex, customer-focused environment.

This is a senior leadership opportunity for someone who thrives on leading large-scale delivery teams, building strong stakeholder relationships and delivering measurable business outcomes.

The Role

Reporting into the senior leadership team, you will be responsible for developing and delivering the operational strategy, ensuring outstanding delivery performance, customer satisfaction and commercial success. You'll lead a portfolio of complex operational programmes, translating business strategy into effective delivery plans while continually improving capability, governance and performance.

You'll work closely with executive stakeholders, customers, suppliers and delivery partners, ensuring operational commitments are met while supporting future growth and transformation.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the operational strategy, aligning delivery with wider business objectives.
• Lead multiple complex operational and infrastructure delivery programmes, balancing priorities, risk, resources and commercial performance.
• Build trusted relationships with senior customers and stakeholders, ensuring delivery commitments and service expectations are consistently achieved.
• Drive operational excellence through continuous improvement, process optimisation and the effective use of data, insight and technology.
• Lead and develop high-performing operational teams, creating a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous learning.
• Own operational budgets, P&L performance, forecasting and cost optimisation across a significant delivery portfolio.
• Establish robust governance, reporting and performance frameworks, providing clear visibility of operational performance, risks and opportunities.
• Lead the resolution of complex operational issues and escalations, ensuring business continuity and effective decision-making.
• Sponsor transformation initiatives that improve customer experience, operational efficiency and organisational capability.
• Promote a culture of safety, compliance, wellbeing and inclusion across all operational activities.

About You

We're looking for an experienced operational leader who combines strategic thinking with exceptional delivery capability.

You'll bring:

• Significant senior leadership experience within telecommunications, infrastructure, utilities, or another complex operational environment.
• A proven track record leading large-scale operational or delivery functions and achieving strategic business objectives.
• Experience managing multi-million-pound operational budgets, commercial performance and financial governance.
• Strong experience delivering business transformation and continuous improvement programmes.
• The ability to influence and engage senior stakeholders, customers and executive leadership teams.
• Extensive programme delivery experience within complex, fast-paced organisations.
• Strong leadership experience across matrix, cross-functional and geographically dispersed teams.
• Demonstrable supplier and partner management experience, driving performance through effective governance.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management and decision-making skills.
• A proactive, resilient and results-focused approach with a passion for developing people and creating high-performing teams.
• Strong understanding of Health & Safety and operational compliance.