Hays
Operations Manager - Hard FM

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Operations Manager - Hard FM
Our client is a leading facilities management organisation delivering maintenance, engineering and accommodation services across a high-profile defence estate portfolio. Supporting critical military infrastructure, the business is committed to providing safe, compliant and efficient facilities services while maintaining the highest standards of operational delivery. Due to continued growth, an opportunity has arisen for an experienced Operations Manager - Hard FM to oversee the delivery of hard facilities management services across multiple sites in the Chester area.
Your new role
As Operations Manager - Hard FM, you will be responsible for the effective, compliant and timely delivery of maintenance and response works across a portfolio of defence-related sites. You will oversee operational performance, contractor management and statutory compliance activities, ensuring all works are delivered in line with contractual obligations, health and safety requirements and industry best practice. Working across a multi-site estate, you will play a key role in driving service excellence, maintaining compliance standards and ensuring engineering and maintenance activities are delivered safely and efficiently.
Key responsibilities:
- Lead the delivery of Hard FM services across multiple sites within the portfolio.
- Ensure all maintenance and response works are completed in accordance with statutory and contractual requirements.
- Manage and monitor subcontractor performance to achieve key service delivery targets and KPIs.
- Review and approve risk assessments and safe systems of work.
- Ensure accurate asset and maintenance records are maintained within CAFM systems.
- Monitor work progress and ensure documentation is completed correctly and on time.
- Maintain compliance with Legionella and Asbestos Management Plans.
- Undertake Responsible Person duties where required.
- Carry out site inspections, audits and compliance reviews.
- Project manage M&E works from inception through to completion.
- Ensure operatives are suitably qualified, competent and equipped to undertake assigned tasks.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives across maintenance and facilities operations.
- Promote a strong health, safety and environmental culture across all activities.
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What you'll need to succeed
- HNC or equivalent qualification in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
- Proven Hard FM experience within a maintenance, engineering or facilities management environment.
- Strong M&E background with an understanding of building services and statutory compliance requirements.
- Experience managing subcontractors and service providers across multiple sites.
- Knowledge of CAFM systems and maintenance management processes.
- Understanding of Legionella management and asbestos compliance.
- Excellent organisational and stakeholder management skills.
- Strong IT and reporting capabilities.
- Experience working within highly regulated environments would be advantageous.
- Full UK driving licence.
- Ability to obtain and maintain SC Clearance.


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Please note: Candidates without relevant Mechanical or Electrical qualifications will not be considered for this position.
What you'll get in return
- Opportunity to work within a unique and highly secure defence estate environment.
- Varied multi-site operational role with significant autonomy and responsibility.
- Supportive leadership team and collaborative working culture.
- Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
- Private medical cover.
- 6% employer matched pension contribution.
- Life assurance of up to 2x annual salary.
- Use of a pool vehicle.
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
- Excellent long-term career prospects within a growing organisation.
Salary: £38,000 - £42,000
Location: Chester area, covering multiple sites within a 30-mile radius
Security Requirements: Candidates must be eligible to obtain SC Clearance.
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
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