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Head of Workplace Operations
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About Us
We're building the UK's next generation engineering powerhouse, providing critical technology that strengthens national security and resilience.
We specialise in turning advances in sensing, AI, and communications into operational capability for the edge, where connectivity may be degraded or denied. Our work focuses on accelerating the deployment of technology, improving decision-making for frontline teams, and protecting people and critical assets in demanding environments.
Headquartered in Bristol, Rowden employs around 200 people and operates over 20,000 square feet of engineering and manufacturing facilities. We have a growing international footprint and are one of Europe’s fastest-growing engineering businesses.
The Role
Rowden is growing fast, and so is our physical footprint. We currently operate two large office units and a warehouse in Bristol, alongside a smaller office in London. We’re also expanding, with a large new site under construction and an additional unit in Bristol about to be brought into use.
With this growth comes the need to bring in a dedicated leader for our facilities. As Head of Workplace Operations, you will own the management of this estate – including the buildings themselves and everything inside that makes them work day-to-day, down to the coffee, the whiteboard pens, and the processes that support how we work. This is a broad, hands-on role with real ownership: your job is to make sure every space enables our people to do their best work and to ensure that they are safe, whether they are at a desk, in the warehouse or out in the field.
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Key Responsibilities
Operation of our current sites
- You’ll join Rowden to lead a team that already keeps our facilities running smoothly, including our Facilities Manager, who leads the day-to-day operation and maintenance of our Bristol sites; our Receptionist, who manages front of house; and our Exec Support & Operations Coordinator, who supports wider office management alongside wider responsibilities.
- Your job is to bring these individual strands together, set the direction, and be accountable for the effective overall operation of Rowden’s workplaces, so our physical environments and workplace technology enable people to do their best work.
Facilities planning
- You will also need to look ahead. As we scale, our space needs will continue to change, and you’ll shape what comes next.
- You’ll work closely with our Facilities Programme lead and leadership team to define the requirements of new facilities and then will ensure we are building to meet those needs.
- This will require strong elicitation and project management skills to keep complex builds on track.
- Once new facilities are online, you will assume responsibility for their operation.
Health and safety
- Beyond facilities, you will also take responsibility for Health and Safety across Rowden.
- You’ll manage our Health, Safety and Environment systems, policies and risk assessments, and build a culture where safety is everyone’s job.
- This extends beyond safety on our sites, you’ll ensure that safety is properly considered when our teams are travelling, on customer site, or out in other demanding environments.
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About You
Rowden is a fast-moving and highly collaborative business. You will need to work with legal, engineering, IT, people, and finance to do your job effectively, so you will need to build strong relationships and coordinate across functions while leading firmly on the areas that are yours. The right person for this role will enjoy taking ownership of a growing estate, keeping people safe, and turning empty units and new sites into spaces where great work happens.
Working Conditions
- You will work to the COO in this role.
- This is primarily a site-based role and we expect the successful candidate to spend a minimum of four days a week in our Bristol office.
- There will also be times when workplace projects or operational activities mean you'll need to be on-site five days a week.
Requirements
- Candidates must be eligible for SC clearance.
- More information about security clearance is available here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/united-kingdom-security-vetting-clearance-levels
Salary
The advertised salary range reflects the breadth of experience and expertise we're open to considering for this role. The final package will be based on the successful candidate's skills and experience.
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