Operations Manager Industrial Refrigeration

Our client, a well-established engineering company specialising in industrial refrigeration solutions, is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead and optimise its day-to-day operational activities.
This is a senior leadership position suited to an engineering or technical professional with strong experience in industrial refrigeration, mechanical engineering, project execution, service operations and team management.
The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring that projects, manufacturing, installations, maintenance and service activities are delivered safely, efficiently, profitably and to the required quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the industrial refrigeration business.
• Manage and coordinate engineering, projects, installation, commissioning, maintenance and service activities.
• Lead multidisciplinary technical and operational teams.
• Ensure projects are delivered according to agreed scope, budget, programme and quality requirements.
• Monitor operational performance, productivity and profitability.
• Develop and implement processes to improve operational efficiency and resource utilisation.
• Coordinate with engineering, procurement, production, site and commercial teams.
• Manage subcontractors, suppliers and external service providers.
• Ensure effective planning and allocation of labour, equipment and technical resources.
• Provide technical and operational support to project and service teams.
• Monitor project and operational costs and identify opportunities to improve margins.
• Ensure compliance with SHEQ, statutory, client and industry requirements.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key clients and stakeholders.
• Assist with business planning, budgeting, forecasting and operational strategy.
• Identify operational risks and implement appropriate mitigation measures.
• Drive a culture of accountability, continuous improvement and customer service.
• Support business development through technical input, client engagement and identification of new opportunities.

Minimum Requirements

• Degree or Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Refrigeration Engineering or a related technical discipline.
• Relevant industry experience, with significant operational or management responsibility.
• Proven experience within industrial refrigeration, HVAC&R, process cooling or a related engineering environment.
• Strong understanding of refrigeration systems, equipment, installations and commissioning.
• Experience managing engineering projects and technical teams.
• Strong commercial and financial understanding, including budgets, costing and profitability.
• Experience working with industrial or process-industry clients.
• Strong knowledge of project planning, resource management and operational processes.
• Valid driver's licence and willingness to travel to client and project sites.