Operations Lead

Do you have experience in water treatment operations and want to develop your career further? Based in Thame, we are seeking a skilled professional to lead and develop our Water Treatment Equipment business, overseeing nationwide operations and supporting the integration between our equipment and consultancy services. Responsibilities Managing the day‑to‑day operations of the Water Equipment business across the UK Ensuring high levels of customer service, efficient utilisation of fee‑earning staff and achievement of revenue and profit targets Overseeing fee‑earning activity, day rates, invoicing, and timely query resolution Reviewing monthly Profit & Loss accounts and supporting business forecasts and KPIs Acting as the first point of contact for the Business Unit Director and providing operational support Assisting in the development and implementation of business strategies and policies Reviewing and improving operational procedures to increase productivity, efficiency and quality Leading, motivating, recruiting and developing staff, carrying out performance reviews and setting training plans Ensuring all training records are maintained and up to date Managing headcount in line with budget requirements Prioritising your own workload and that of your team to meet customer requirements in a timely and cost‑effective manner Attending and contributing to company meetings as required Working safely and following SOCOTEC’s Integrated Management System procedures Qualifications Strong leadership, motivational and people‑management skills Excellent communication skills at all levels Ability to work collaboratively with other departments High level of organisation, attention to detail and flexibility A proactive, enthusiastic approach to work Relevant degree or equivalent qualification (ideally Engineering) A minimum of 5 years relevant experience Desired Skills A leadership or people‑management qualification Experience managing medium to large projects (100k+) A working knowledge of the Orderwise operating system Extensive knowledge of water pre‑treatment equipment Our Culture We have over 2,000 colleagues across our divisions delivering world‑class services to our customers. We have several business streams that provide an unrivalled range of testing, inspection, and certification and advisory services throughout the UK, and we deliver excellence to our customers by recruiting and retaining the very best industry talent. At SOCOTEC, we believe that a driven, inspired and challenged team is the key to success. We promote inclusivity, encourage individuality and have a zero‑tolerance policy to discrimination, with the aim that every single member of our team will thrive both in and out of the workplace. We invest in our people. We push you to grow and we want you to progress. We believe in continued development and the pursuit of ambition. Our open and friendly office space promotes a culture of teamwork and provides the opportunity to ask, listen and learn from those around you. With a young, dynamic and exciting workplace, we are constantly striving as a team to develop and succeed. Think you’ve got what it takes to add value to our success? We would love to hear from you and look forward to receiving your application. Building a safer and more sustainable world is the core mission we set out to achieve at SOCOTEC, it is at the heart of everything that we do. We are committed to acting as a key player in society, investing in innovative solutions to ensure social and environmental concerns are at the forefront of all of our business operations. Benefits Competitive salary depending on experience, can increase as you develop and grow in the role. 25 days holiday with the opportunity to buy more. Electric car scheme (where applicable). Employee recognition schemes. Family‑friendly support. Employee benefits and discounts app. Employee assistance programmes. Enhanced company pension. #J-18808-Ljbffr