ALink Recruitment are working with an engineering consultancy in Stratford, looking for an Operations Director. The ideal canddidate should have experience running £10m+ infrastructure divisions, be comfortable with Network Rail / TfL bureaucracy, know compliance (CDM, audits, satey, KPIs), have experience building middle management beneath them and be able to work fully autonomously. The role will be fully office based.
Reporting to the Managing Directors, the Operations Director will take full ownership of operational delivery across our UK rail contracts. This is a pivotal leadership role responsible for aligning safety, quality, and efficiency with commercial performance. You’ll provide strategic direction, drive performance across multiple teams, and ensure consistent delivery to client standards — all while championing a proactive safety culture.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and manage the end-to-end operational delivery of Modus Rail’s contracts across all routes and frameworks.
* Maintain full accountability for safety performance, compliance with industry standards, and operational risk management.
* Ensure effective resourcing, including workforce planning, skills alignment, and utilisation of direct and subcontracted labour.
* Set and manage KPIs to drive efficiency, quality, and client satisfaction.
* Support client engagement and contract governance, attending performance meetings and fostering long-term relationships.
* Oversee programme delivery, from scheduling and logistics to reporting and variation control.
* Work closely with the Commercial and Finance teams to ensure budgets, forecasts, and margins are maintained.
* Continuously improve processes, systems, and reporting tools to support sustainable growth.
* Lead and mentor the operational leadership team, instilling a culture of accountability, collaboration, and excellence.
* Support the development and implementation of strategic growth initiatives.
Key Requirements
* Proven track record in a senior operational leadership role within the rail, infrastructure or civil engineering sector.
* Deep understanding of Network Rail frameworks, standards, and compliance requirements (including NR/L2/OHS/019, STE4/STE5).
* Excellent leadership skills, with experience managing multi-disciplinary delivery teams and subcontractors.
* Strong commercial acumen and programme management expertise.
* Outstanding organisational and communication skills.
* Familiar with workforce safety strategies including fatigue, travel management, and behavioural safety.
* A strategic thinker who is also willing to roll up sleeves and lead from the front.
* Full UK driving licence.
What We Offer
* Competitive base salary
* Bonus scheme linked to company and personal performance
* 25 days holiday + 8 bank holidays
* Modern Stratford office with excellent transport links
* Key role in shaping the future of a growing national rail business