Operations Manager

Operations Manager

MFK Recruitment is proud to be working with a long-standing and highly successful client in the advanced AI and technology sector.

We have recruited for this business for 5 years, placing 4 people with them, and all 4 are still with the company.

Our client is a rapidly growing AI and Machine Learning company, specialising in the research, development and deployment of advanced technology into highly regulated sectors. Their team includes experienced software developers, data scientists, Machine Learning specialists and researchers, and the business is now looking to strengthen its senior operations function as it continues to grow.

They are now looking for an Operations Manager to join their senior management team.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Operations Manager to join an ambitious SME at an exciting stage of growth, working closely with the CEO and senior leadership team to improve operational structure, processes and delivery.

The role

The Operations Manager will work closely with the CEO and senior management team, taking responsibility for the day-to-day operations of the business.

This is a varied, hands-on role suited to someone who enjoys working across people, process, office management, suppliers, compliance, recruitment, events and operational delivery.

The successful candidate will help implement strong controls, policies, procedures and processes across the company, ensuring the business can scale effectively while maintaining high standards of delivery.

Key responsibilities

As the Operations Manager, you will:

• Work closely with the CEO and staff to support the smooth running of company operations
• Develop, implement and maintain policies, procedures and operational processes
• Improve the efficiency of existing processes and internal ways of working
• Ensure operational activities are delivered on time and within budget
• Support people management, including non-specialist HR matters
• Help manage recruitment plans and hiring activity
• Support team development, reporting, productivity and issue resolution
• Ensure business activities remain compliant
• Manage purchasing, suppliers and operational administration
• Manage the office, facilities and day-to-day workplace requirements
• Organise internal and external meetings, events, conferences and exhibitions
• Coordinate senior team attendance at conferences, exhibitions and customer-facing events
• Manage processes for obtaining accreditations, approvals and relevant clearances
• Engage with external regulators and stakeholders where required
• Organise field trials and technology demonstrations, including attendees, logistics and event coordination
• Carry out ad hoc research projects and operational improvement initiatives
• Provide general support to the CEO and senior management team

Skills and experience required

The successful Operations Manager will need:

• Proven experience as an Operations Manager within an SME
• Experience working across a broad range of operational areas in a growing business
• Strong process improvement, policy and procedure implementation experience
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Experience supporting recruitment, HR administration, suppliers, facilities and business operations
• Good commercial awareness and the ability to support operational decision-making
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• A proactive, hands-on and flexible approach
• The ability to thrive in a fast-moving environment
• Comfort working in an ambitious SME where responsibilities can be broad and varied
• High levels of integrity, reliability and attention to detail
• Strong interest in technology and its commercial applications
• Existing UK security clearance, or the ability to obtain security clearance

Desirable experience

The following would be beneficial:

• Experience working in a technology, software, AI, engineering, research or innovation-led business
• Experience working in Defence, military, government, aerospace, security or similarly regulated sectors
• Experience managing operational requirements linked to technical demonstrations, trials, events or deployments
• Experience supporting accreditation, compliance or regulatory processes
• Financial literacy and experience supporting budgets or cost control
• Experience working in ambiguous, fast-moving environments where priorities can change quickly

Location

Hybrid working, with regular attendance at the office in Brentford, West London.

There will also be some travel for meetings, events, conferences, exhibitions and operational activities.

Why apply?

This is a rare opportunity to join a growing specialist technology business in a senior, high-impact operations role.

You will work directly with the CEO and senior management team, helping to build the operational structure, processes and controls needed to support the company’s continued growth.

The role would suit an experienced Operations Manager who enjoys variety, responsibility and working closely with technical and commercial teams in an ambitious SME environment.

Package

£55,000 - £65,000