Project Operations Manager

Location: Derby, UK
Salary: up to -60k

We are exclusively partnering with a growing engineering business to recruit a Project Ops Manager who will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the UK operation. This is a unique opportunity for a technically minded individual with leadership potential to grow into an Operations or Managing Director position over time.

This role will begin with a strong project and commercial focus and will evolve into a senior leadership role as the individual becomes embedded in the business.

1. Lead the success of the sister site - oversee product launch, branding and commercial success.

2. Drive UK business growth - expand activity in local markets and enhance international collaboration.

3. Prepare for a future leadership role - gain an in-depth understanding of operations at the Derby site and broader UK strategy.

• Oversee key technical sales projects with a commercial focus.

• Work cross functionally across engineering, production and commercial teams.

• Build and strengthen relationships with existing customers, broadening contact networks.

• Identify and develop new OEM opportunities (organically or via acquisition).

• Collaborate closely with senior leadership across the UK and US divisions.

• Technical background essential - ideally with exposure to combustion or gas systems.

• Experience in technical/OEM sales or engineering project management.

• Confident working across both engineering and commercial functions.

• Self-starter with strong initiative and long-term vision.

• Comfortable in a dynamic, evolving SME environment.

• Strategic thinker with a hands on, team-oriented approach.

• 0-6 months: Learn the business structure and key customers across UK locations.

• By Year 1: Drive new business development and grow revenue base.

• By Year 1.5: Gain operational oversight experience; begin transition into leadership responsibilities.

• By Year 2: Step into a UK leadership role with a focus on strategic growth and people development.

• Located within commuting distance of Derby or willing to relocate.

• Ambitious, adaptable, and eager to grow into a senior position.

Interested?
If you''re ready to step into a high-impact role with a clear leadership pathway, we''d love to hear from you.