Join to apply for the Area Operations Manager - South role at Careers at Hills.
Base pay range
Area Operations Manager
Covering Sites: Dorset, Berkshire & Wiltshire
Salary: £58,000 - £62,000 per annum plus car allowance £9,300 - £9,700
Relocation Assistance: Subject to HMRC guidance
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
What We Offer
* Healthcare maintenance cash plan (covering dental, optical, physiotherapy, prescriptions, and health screening)
* Salary sacrifice pension scheme with life assurance
* 25 days holiday (increasing annually to 28) + holiday trading
* Salary sacrifice cycle-to-work scheme
* Access to shopping and gym discounts
* Employee assistance programme (24/7 helpline + up to 6 counselling sessions per year)
* Paid volunteering days (up to 2 per year)
* Eligibility to join Group Performance Bonus scheme
* Relocation assistance available (subject to HMRC guidelines)
About the Role
As Area Operations Manager, you will lead and optimise operations across multiple sand and stone aggregate quarries and a rail depot in the South region. You will ensure safe, efficient, and cost‑effective production while maintaining compliance with all regulatory and environmental requirements.
Key Responsibilities
* Oversee quarry operations to deliver the right quantity and quality of product safely and profitably
* Drive operational efficiency through proactive maintenance and resource planning
* Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and planning regulations, including the Quarries Regulations 1999
* Manage budgets, cost control, and supplier relationships across multiple sites
* Lead, motivate, and develop site teams, fostering a culture of safety and continuous improvement
* Plan and deliver site improvement projects, restoration regimes, and earthmoving activities
* Build strong relationships with regulators, contractors, and customers
What We’re Looking For in our Area Operations Manager
* NVQ Level 6 Diploma in Safety, Health and Environmental Management in Mineral Product Operations (or equivalent)
* Proven experience managing sand and gravel operations and production processes ideally across multiple sites
* Strong knowledge of health and safety systems, cost control, and regulatory compliance
* In‑depth understanding of the Quarries Regulations 1999
* Excellent leadership, people management, planning, and problem‑solving skills
* Ability to manage budgets and analyse operational data to make informed decisions
* Experience in earthmoving projects, restoration regimes, and scheduling maintenance
* Strong analytical and critical thinking skills with the ability to manage conflicting priorities
Why Join Us
This is an exciting opportunity for someone who values the heritage of quarrying while embracing innovation. You’ll play a key role in shaping the future of our operations, ensuring we remain competitive and sustainable in a rapidly evolving industry.
Interview Information
First stage interviews will be held mid to end of January 2026.
About Us
Across Wiltshire and surrounding counties, The Hills Group of companies manages and recycles waste, produces essential construction materials through quarrying and ready‑mixed concrete, and builds award‑winning homes in sought‑after locations. Established in 1900 and family‑owned, the group has evolved into a multi‑million pound business, pioneering major infrastructure projects and employing over 600 people. It is committed to providing an equitable workplace for all; we aim to ensure our workplaces are free from discrimination, and that our current and future colleagues are treated fairly and with dignity and respect. Please feel free to contact us directly should you wish to discuss how we can ensure a positive experience for you.
Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level. Employment type: Full‑time. Job function: Management and Manufacturing. Industries: Farming.
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