Annual salary: up to £50,000.00

Operations Manager

The role is based at our Aylesford branch (due to relocate to a new site in the new year. The new location will still be on the outskirts of Maidstone, near Junction 7 of the M20)

Full Time, Permanent, 40 hours per week Monday – Friday

Salary up to £50,000 per annum, plus, £4,000 car allowance

Hybrid working pattern – Office / Home / Site visits

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced Operations Manager to join our Maidstone branch and support the General Manager in overseeing our Facilities Management contracts and branch operations. As an Operations Manager, you will take a leadership role in the absence of the General Manager, and you will be a key member of the branch’s senior management team. Your primary responsibility will be to manage a team of Facilities Managers and Administration staff to ensure the delivery of outstanding customer service and meet operational and financial objectives.

You will be at the forefront of ensuring operational excellence across the branch, supporting in the delivery of both short-term and long-term strategic goals. The role will require you to be adaptable, proactive, and highly organized, as you will be expected to oversee multiple priorities simultaneously. In addition to your operational responsibilities, you will be directly involved in managing relationships with key stakeholders, driving performance improvements, and supporting financial and commercial outcomes. This role provides the opportunity to lead a dynamic team, influence business performance, and contribute significantly to the continued success and growth of the branch.

About the Contracts

Kent and Medway NHS and Social Care Partnership Trust (KMPT) provides a full range of in-patient and out-patient mental health services across Kent & Medway operating across numerous sites it includes services for older adults, forensic & specialist services and acute services. The Trust has a diverse property portfolio of around 68 sites with an approximate total GIA of. 70,000sq. m spread across Kent and Medway, which provide 24-7 365-day patient services.     

Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust (KCHFT) employs around 5700 staff made up of community nurses, physiotherapists, dietitians, podiatrists, dental staff and many other health care professionals and corporate services. The Trust is one of the largest community health providers in England, serving a population of approximately 1.4 million people across Kent, East Sussex and parts of London Boroughs. This Trust has 33 sites included in the contract.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage a team delivering high-quality Facilities Management services across a range of sectors, including Water, Gas, Asbestos, Electrical, Fire, and Lifts.
• Ensure all contractual and branch KPIs are met, with a focus on operational efficiency and client satisfaction.
• Collaborate closely with the Compliance Manager and Project Manager to meet SLAs and ensure profitability for the branch.
• Oversee the completion of Reactive, Planned, Statutory, and Non-Statutory preventative maintenance programs within agreed timelines and budgets.
• Monitor, evaluate, and control subcontractors, suppliers, and labour resources to ensure high-quality service and cost control.
• Serve as the primary point of escalation for clients, managing complex or urgent issues as required.
• Attend client meetings to strengthen relationships and ensure the highest level of service delivery.
• Support Facilities Managers in holding monthly meetings with subcontractors and monitoring their performance.
• Ensure all reporting tasks are completed on time, including van checks, post inspections, toolbox talks, and H&S audit actions.
• Act as a champion for Mears Group Policies, Processes, and Systems, promoting adherence to company values across the branch.
• Ensure compliance with SFG20 requirements and contribute to the continuous improvement of health and safety practices.
• Assist the General Manager with the financial application process, chase debts, and implement strategies to improve branch profitability and operational efficiency.
• Develop and implement efficient processes for branch administrative functions and ensure contractual compliance.
• Help manage branch costs, including fleet, purchasing, and resource management.
• Participate in internal Senior Management meetings to report on progress and collaborate on strategy.
• Act as the escalation manager for complex situations, ensuring timely resolution and client satisfaction.

Role Criteria:

• Proven experience in operations management within facilities management, social housing, or social care sectors.
• Strong leadership experience, including managing a team of managers and staff.
• Sound understanding of commercial and financial aspects of contract management.
• In-depth knowledge of health and safety requirements within the sector.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with clients, staff, and external stakeholders.
• High level of organization and attention to detail.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make quick, informed decisions.

Benefits:

• 25 days annual leave + bank holidays.
• Opportunities for career growth and professional development.
• Generous Pension Scheme.
• Cycle to Work Scheme.
• Sharesave Scheme.
• Eye Test Vouchers.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Annual Mears Fun Day – A thank-you event organized by our Executive team, with past events including Alton Towers and Drayton Manor.
• Staff perks with Mears Rewards – discounts on coffee, groceries, holidays, and more.
• A supportive and friendly team environment with opportunities to grow within the business.
• Volunteering Leave – Mears encourages employees to participate in community volunteering as part of our social value commitment.
• Opportunity within Mears to be part of a number of advocating groups within Equality, Diversity & Inclusion.

Apply below or to discuss your application further; contact Beth on [email protected]

Mears Group recognise our people as our greatest asset, we Hire Individuality, recognising and valuing everyone is individual and ensuring equal access to opportunities for all regardless of social economic background or individual make up.

All our roles require candidates to have the entitlement to work within the UK, Mears does not currently offer visa sponsorship.

Candidates should be aware that all our roles are subject to relevant DBS/Security checks either before commencement of employment.