Contracts Manager/ Operations Manager
6 days ago
London
Contracts Manager / Operations Manager Ground Investigation Location: ScotlandContract: Permanent, Full TimeSector: Ground Investigation / Geotechnical Contracting / Site InvestigationThe Opportunity An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Contracts Manager / Operations Manager to join a well-established ground investigation contractor covering projects across Scotland.We are seeking a candidate with strong UK ground investigation, geotechnical contracting or technical contracting experience who can lead operational delivery across multiple projects.This is a senior role combining contract management, site operations, commercial control, resource planning, HSEQ standards, team leadership and client delivery.The successful candidate will take ownership of projects from mobilisation through to completion, ensuring works are delivered safely, efficiently, commercially and to the required technical standard.About the Company The employer is an established ground investigation and geotechnical contractor delivering site investigation services across a range of sectors.The business supports clients across infrastructure, construction, residential, commercial and development-led projects, providing practical site investigation solutions from planning and mobilisation through to completion.With experienced operational teams, drilling resources and technical support, the company offers a hands-on environment where senior managers can influence delivery, improve performance and support regional growth.The Role As Contracts Manager / Operations Manager, the successful candidate will be responsible for managing ground investigation contracts and overseeing day-to-day operational delivery across Scotland.The role will involve coordinating project teams, drilling crews, plant, subcontractors, laboratories and commercial information to ensure projects are delivered safely, on time and within budget.Applicants should demonstrate strong operational judgement, commercial awareness and the ability to manage people, programmes and client expectations across multiple live projects.Key Responsibilities Contract and Project Delivery Manage ground investigation contracts from mobilisation through to completionOversee the planning, coordination and delivery of multiple projectsReview project scopes, specifications, programmes and commercial requirementsEnsure projects are delivered safely, efficiently and to agreed standardsCoordinate site teams, drilling crews, subcontractors, laboratories and suppliersMonitor progress against programme and resolve operational issuesEnsure project documentation, site records and deliverables are completed accuratelyLiaise with project managers, engineers, clients and internal teams throughout deliverySupport the successful handover and close-out of completed projectsOperations Management Lead day-to-day operational delivery across active ground investigation projectsPlan and allocate labour, drilling rigs, plant, equipment and materialsEnsure resources are used effectively across projectsSupport mobilisation, site set-up and demobilisation activitiesManage operational risks, delays and site constraintsMaintain clear communication between site teams and office-based staffImprove consistency, efficiency and quality across operational deliverySupport wider regional planning and workload managementCommercial Management Take responsibility for commercial performance across assigned contractsMonitor project budgets, costs, WIP, forecasting and profitabilityReview project expenditure and resource utilisationIdentify variations, additional works and changes in scopeSupport applications for payment, invoicing and commercial reportingMaintain accurate commercial records and project financial informationWork closely with senior management to improve margins and delivery performanceContribute to financial planning and operational decision-makingHSEQ and Compliance Promote strong health, safety, environmental and quality standards across all projectsEnsure works are delivered in accordance with RAMS, project documentation and company proceduresMonitor site compliance and safe working practicesSupport site inspections, audits and safety reviewsEnsure incidents, hazards and near misses are reported and addressedMaintain high standards of technical quality and site documentationEncourage a positive safety culture across site and operational teamsSupport continuous improvement across HSEQ performanceTeam Leadership Lead, support and develop project managers, engineers, supervisors and site teamsProvide clear direction and support to operational staffAssist with workload planning, performance management and team developmentMentor team members and encourage high professional standardsSupport recruitment, onboarding and training where requiredPromote accountability, communication and collaboration across the teamHelp develop a strong regional delivery cultureClient and Stakeholder Management Act as a key point of contact for clients on assigned contractsBuild and maintain strong client relationshipsAttend progress meetings, commercial reviews and project discussionsCommunicate project progress, risks and changes clearlyResolve client queries and delivery issues professionallySupport repeat business through reliable project deliveryContribute to client development and regional growth opportunitiesBusiness and Regional Growth Support the continued growth of the Scottish regionIdentify opportunities to improve service delivery and project performanceAssist with tender reviews, proposals and new project opportunitiesProvide operational input into pricing, planning and resource requirementsSupport senior management with regional strategy and developmentContribute to a commercially focused and growth-minded working environmentAbout You We are seeking a candidate with strong operational experience within ground investigation, geotechnical contracting, site investigation or a closely related technical contracting environment.The successful candidate should be confident managing contracts, leading teams, coordinating site resources and overseeing commercial project performance.Applicants should demonstrate strong organisation, communication, leadership and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities across Scotland.This role would suit a candidate currently working as a Contracts Manager, Operations Manager, Senior Project Manager, Regional Manager or experienced Project Manager ready to step into a broader operational role.Essential Requirements Strong UK ground investigation, geotechnical contracting or technical contracting experienceProven UK project experience is requiredCandidates must be eligible to work in the UKPrevious experience managing contracts, operations or multiple site-based projectsStrong understanding of ground investigation delivery and site operationsExperience coordinating drilling crews, site teams, subcontractors and suppliersGood commercial awareness, including budgets, WIP, forecasting and project profitabilityExperience managing programmes, resources and project delivery standardsStrong understanding of HSEQ requirements within site-based operationsAbility to lead and support project teams and operational staffStrong client-facing and stakeholder-management skillsExcellent written and verbal communication skillsGood organisational and problem-solving abilityFull UK driving licenceWillingness to travel across Scotland as requiredDesirable Experience Previous experience as a Contracts Manager or Operations ManagerExperience working within ground investigation or geotechnical contractingKnowledge of drilling techniques, laboratory scheduling and site investigation processesExperience supporting tenders, proposals or commercial submissionsExperience managing regional operations or multi-project workloadsExperience leading project managers, engineers or site supervisorsSMSTS or SSSTS qualificationCSCS cardFirst Aid at Work qualificationTechnical qualification or degree in Geology, Engineering Geology, Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering or a related disciplineSalary and Benefits Competitive salary, depending on experienceCar allowance/CarCompany pension contributionAnnual leave plus bank holidaysAdditional holiday entitlement with length of serviceMobile phone and laptopFlexible Working Pattern/ 3 days office 2 days from homeMedical Cover/HealthVaried and challenging ground investigation projectsOpportunity to support regional growth across ScotlandSupportive senior leadership teamAllowances & ExpensesWhy Apply? Take ownership of ground investigation operations across ScotlandLead contracts from mobilisation through to commercial close-outManage project teams, drilling resources, programmes and budgetsPlay a key role in HSEQ, delivery standards and operational performanceBuild strong client relationships and support regional growthStep into a senior role with genuine responsibility and influenceJoin a well-established contractor with a varied ground investigation workloadInclusion and Diversity The employer is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive working environment where individuals from all backgrounds are welcomed and respected.TPBN1_UKTJ