Operations Manager

Job Title: Operations Manager - Water

Salary: Competitive with benefits package

Location: Flexible / Nationwide

Contract: Permanent

About IES

IES Utilities Group Ltd is a leading UK utility Provider delivering end-to-end utility solutions. Our teams operate across Power, Gas, Water, Telecoms, District Heating and Renewables, where we provide survey, design, construction, and maintenance services nationwide. With a commitment to innovation, safety, and sustainability, IES supports clients in building and maintaining resilient, future-ready infrastructure networks across the UK. Headquartered in Manchester, IES continues to grow as a trusted partner in the utilities sector.

Our Vision: To be the leading utility and infrastructure services provider, Known for innovative and sustainable solutions to current and future challenges.

Our Mission: To enable essential utility networks and infrastructure to achieve exceptional levels of resilience and long-term value

Role Summary

IES Group is seeking an experienced and motivated Operations Manager to lead the delivery of water infrastructure projects across our Water Division. The successful candidate will be responsible for the safe, efficient, and profitable management of operational activities, ensuring the highest standards of quality, compliance, and customer service are consistently achieved.

The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in water network operations, including mains rehabilitation, repair and maintenance, and trenchless technologies. They will have a proven track record of managing multiple projects, leading operational teams, and delivering works within budget and programme requirements.

Key Responsibilities will include but are not limited to

Operational Management

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the Water Division.
• Plan, coordinate, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Ensure works are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.
• Monitor project performance and implement improvements to maximise efficiency and productivity.
• Lead operational teams, supervisors, subcontractors, and support staff.

Technical Delivery

• Manage projects involving:
• Water mains rehabilitation.
• Water mains repair and maintenance
• Leak detection and network improvements.
• Trenchless technologies.
• Hoizontal Directional Drilling (HDD).
• New mains installations and diversions.
• Ensure compliance with water industry specifications, standards, and client requirements.
• Provide technical guidance and support to project teams.

Health and Safety, Environmental Control

• Promote and maintain a strong health and safety culture throughout the division.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, company policies, and client requirements.
• Lead incident investigations and implement corrective actions where required.
• Monitor environmental and quality performance across all projects.

Commercial and Financial Management

• Support the commercial team in project forecasting, budgeting, and cost control.
• Monitor project profitability and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Assist with tender submissions and operational planning for new contracts.
• Manage resource allocation to maximise operational efficiency.

Client Stakeholder Management

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients, local authorities, suppliers, and key stakeholders.
• Attend client meetings and provide operational updates.
• Ensure excellent customer service and responsiveness across all contracts

People Management

• Recruit, develop, and mentor operational staff.
• Conduct performance reviews and identify training requirements.
• Foster a positive and collaborative team culture.
• Drive employee engagement and continuous improvement initiatives.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in an Operations Manager or Senior Contracts Manager role within the water industry.
• Extensive knowledge of:
• Water mains rehabilitation.
• Water mains repair and maintenance.
• Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD).
• Trenchless technology techniques.
• Strong understanding of water network infrastructure and utility operations.
• Demonstrable experience managing multiple projects and operational teams.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills.
• Strong commercial awareness and budget management experience.
• Full UK Driving Licence.

Desirable Qualifications

• HNC/HND or Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Utilities Management, or a related discipline.
• NRSWA Supervisor.
• SMSTS.
• NEBOSH General Certificate.
• EUSR Water Hygiene.
• Project Management qualification (Prince2, APM, or equivalent).

What We Offer

• Competitive salary
• Supportive team environment
• Career Progression opportunities
• Pension
• Holiday allowance (25 days + Bank holidays)
• Other benefits

How to Apply

If you believe you have the skills and experience we're looking for, please submit your CV, including a brief covering note outlining your most relevant contract management or account management experience to recruitment@iesutilities.co.uk. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply.