Operations Director

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished bespoke joinery specialist with over three decades of industry experience, focuses on delivering superior interior solutions for commercial and residential projects primarily across London, the South East, and the Midlands. Due to ongoing growth and ambitious expansion plans, they seek a seasoned Operations Director to lead delivery operations and engage as a key member of the senior leadership team, based in Reading, Berkshire.

This pivotal leadership position involves full ownership of project delivery from contract handover to final account, managing Project Management, Design, and Procurement teams concurrently to ensure timely, within-budget, and high-quality project execution.

The role demands an operational leader comfortable both in strategic boardroom discussions and on-site client interactions, steering operational excellence, risk management, and fostering a culture of accountability and quality throughout the business.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and develop integrated teams including Project Management, Design, and Procurement functions.
• Ensure consistent operational performance emphasizing safety, profitability, and adherence to schedules across all projects.
• Maintain transparency on active projects through precise reporting and forecasting mechanisms.
• Manage commercial and contractual risks, engage in disciplined variation and recovery management, and support project managers with client escalations and complex commercial decisions.
• Collaborate with Finance for accurate revenue forecasting and cost monitoring.
• Supervise design outputs to align with budget, timelines, and client expectations while bolstering procurement practices and supplier reliability.
• Foster a high-performing delivery culture focused on clear standards, coaching, recruitment, succession planning, and encouraging collaborative operational excellence.

Candidate Profile

• Experience stems from joinery, fit-out, interiors, construction, or specialist manufacturing sectors.
• Demonstrable success in operational leadership within dynamic, project-driven environments.
• Strong grasp of commercial contracts and risk management.
• Proven ability to manage cross-functional teams effectively.
• Expertise in project/programme delivery and financial acumen relating to margins, forecasting, and completion costs.
• Organized, proactive, and decisive leadership approach with strong client communication skills and early problem detection capability.
• Prior experience in bespoke joinery, fit-out, or interior manufacturing considered a significant advantage.

Compensation and Benefits

The salary package ranges from 100,000 to 125,000 annually, subject to experience and negotiation. Additional benefits include a performance-based bonus, profit-sharing opportunities, and a company car or allowance.

Additional Information

This full-time senior leadership role requires regular site visits and resides onsite in Reading, Berkshire. The selected individual will have a considerable impact on the companys operational strategies and future growth trajectory.