Operations Manager

Operations Manager / Operations LeadElectrical, MEP & Critical Infrastructure DeliveryManchester based | £90,000+Morson is working exclusively with an established critical infrastructure specialist to appoint a senior Operations Manager / Operations Lead.This is a Manchester-based role with a business operating across the UK and Europe, delivering technically demanding projects where safety, programme control, commercial discipline, quality and handover all matter.You do not need to have spent your whole career in data centres.If you have led complex electrical, MEP, CSA, building services or technical infrastructure packages for a specialist contractor, this could be a very strong move.The role needs someone who understands delivery at subcontractor level. Someone who can lead teams, manage programme pressure, challenge design, stay close to the commercial position, work with clients and keep projects moving through procurement, installation, commissioning and handover.You will report into the Director of Operations and take ownership of project delivery across critical infrastructure environments, with support from experienced design, commercial, commissioning and delivery teams.What you'll be doingYou will be responsible for the safe, commercial and technical delivery of complex electrical, MEP and CSA packages.This is a senior operations role, but it is still close to the work. You will be expected to support project teams, manage package performance, control risk and maintain proper project discipline from design coordination through to close-out.Key responsibilities include:Leading delivery across complex electrical, MEP, CSA and critical infrastructure projectsManaging project teams, site teams, subcontractors, suppliers and specialist work packagesKeeping control of programme performance, critical path activity, reporting and mitigation plansWorking with commercial teams on cost control, variations, compensation events and monthly reportingSupporting procurement of plant, equipment, materials and subcontract packagesOverseeing design coordination, drawing control, document management and BIM model updatesMaking sure the right drawings, models and project information are being used on siteDriving a strong safety culture with a genuine “don't walk by” approachManaging risk registers, Early Warnings, project issues and improvement actionsMonitoring subcontractor and supplier performance against programme and project requirementsSupporting commissioning, witnessing, handover and close-out documentationBuilding strong client relationships and keeping communication clear, factual and professionalSupporting pre-construction and work-winning teams with buildability, programme and delivery inputWhat we're looking forWe are looking for someone with a strong background in construction operations, contracts management, senior project delivery or technical site leadership.Data centre experience would be valuable, but it is not essential.The key requirement is experience delivering complex technical packages where programme, safety, quality, commercial control and coordination are critical.Relevant backgrounds could include:Electrical contractingMEP contractingCritical infrastructureBuilding servicesTechnical fit-outCSA fit-outCritical powerHV / LV infrastructureHealthcare, pharmaceutical, defence, industrial, aviation or other complex live environmentsData centres or mission critical facilitiesYou should bring:10+ years' experience in construction operations, contracts management or senior project deliveryStrong electrical, MEP, CSA or technical infrastructure delivery experienceExperience working for a subcontractor, specialist contractor or technical delivery businessConfidence managing project teams, site teams, suppliers and specialist work packagesStrong programme control, reporting, critical path and mitigation planning experienceCommercial awareness, including cost reporting, monthly reviews and P&L understandingExperience working with contract environments such as NEC, JCT or FIDICUnderstanding of Earned Value Management or structured progress reportingExperience supporting commissioning, handover and project close-outStrong documentation, meeting, reporting and stakeholder management disciplineSMSTS, CSCS and a relevant health and safety qualificationDegree qualification or equivalent industry experienceYou will be based in or around Manchester, with flexibility to travel to project locations when required.Why this role?This is a proper senior operations role with an established critical infrastructure specialist operating in a growing UK and European market.It offers the chance to step into a visible leadership position, with direct access to senior decision-makers and experienced design, commercial, commissioning and delivery support around you.For someone coming from an electrical, MEP or specialist subcontractor background, it is a chance to move into a broader operations role without losing touch with the detail of delivery.For a confidential conversation, contact Ryan Dickenson at Morson Edge.TPBN1_UKTJ