Are you an experienced operational leader with a passion for delivering high quality public services? Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment where no two days are the same? Uttlesford District Council is seeking a proactive and motivated Operations Manager to join our Environmental Services team to help shape the future of waste, recycling, services across the district.
This is a pivotal management role within the Environmental Services directorate. You will provide day to day leadership to our large operational teams, including Waste and Recycling (56 staff). Your focus will be on ensuring safe, effective, and customer focused delivery of services that make a visible difference to our residents, communities, and environment.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead, motivate and support Team Leaders and frontline staff to deliver high standards across all operational services.
* Ensure services operate safely and efficiently, with robust compliance with risk assessments and safe systems of work.
* Oversee training, development and performance management to ensure staff are skilled, confident and supported in their roles.
* Drive continuous improvement, identifying opportunities to increase operational resilience, deliver service efficiencies and enhance customer satisfaction.
* Lead the successful rollout of new service changes, including the implementation of Simpler Recycling and upgrades to in cab technology.
* Manage recruitment, workforce planning and staff engagement through toolbox talks, meetings and clear communication.
* Respond to customer queries and complaints in a timely, professional manner.
* Support budget planning, monitor expenditure and lead procurement of services and supplies.
* Maintain accurate performance data and use this to drive improvement and effective decision making.
* Build strong relationships with internal colleagues, parish and town councils, and other partners to support wider environmental and organisational objectives.
We’re looking for someone who is confident leading large, diverse teams in a demanding operational environment. A valid driving licence and flexibility to support out-of-hours activity as required.
Uttlesford District Council is a family friendly Council. We encourage and support our employees to have a healthy work life balance as well as offering a range of benefits including generous annual leave, plus bank holidays (pro-rata), leisure centre discounts, membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme and an online platform offering discounts from online retailers.
For an informal discussion please contact Ben Brown 01799 510557.
To find out more and apply please visit https://www.uttlesford.gov.uk/jobs-careers
Closing date for completed applications is Sunday 15 March 2026.
Interviews are intended to be held Thursday 26 March 2026.
CVs will not be accepted. Uttlesford District Council is an inclusive employer, and we welcome applications from all. We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and a Fostering Friendly Employer and proud to support our Care Leavers and the Armed Forces Covenant. Anyone disclosing a disability or is a Care leaver or is a member of the Armed Forces community (Veteran/Service leaver, Reserve Forces, or their Spouses/Partners or Cadet Force Adult Volunteer) whose application meets the essential criteria for the post will be guaranteed an interview.
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