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UK Head of Engineering Operations & Project Management
Who We Are:
Originally, the manufacturer of one of the world's first electronic key management systems in 1990 - we are now world leaders in innovative technology for sophisticated, intelligent key management systems and locker solutions. We operate in a wide variety of channel markets such as Government, MOD, Prisons, Fleet, Distribution Centres, and Data Centres etc.
Traka became part of ASSA ABLOY in April 2012, who are the world’s leading manufacturer and supplier of door opening solutions, meeting tough end-user demands for safety, security and convenience. ASSA ABLOY products can be seen and used everywhere you go in your daily life from brands such as Yale, Chubb and HID.
In January 2019, Traka became part of the Global Solutions division of ASSA ABLOY, which allows Traka to grow further globally, including Cloud technologies.
We are dedicated to satisfying end-user needs for security, safety and convenience. We are always looking for talented, energetic people with integrity and the desire to succeed. We are an equal opportunity employer offering competitive salaries and benefits in a team environment where you can freely speak across teams and departments to seek help and guidance.
Working for Traka means that you will be part of an agile environment, with innovative solutions to improve our customers' lives.
Your Opportunity:
We are seeking an experienced and strategic UK Head of Engineering Operations & Project Management to lead and evolve our UK Operations function. This high-impact role will report directly to the Head of UK and form a key part of the UK Senior Management Team (SMT), playing a crucial role in shaping and delivering our business growth strategy. Responsibilities include overseeing Engineering, Project Management, and Scheduling teams, driving operational excellence, streamlining processes, and leading transformational initiatives.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Provide strategic leadership and oversight across Engineering, Project Management, and Scheduling functions, managing and developing a team through three direct reports.
2. Act as a key member of the UK Senior Management Team (SMT), representing the Operations & Engineering function and contributing to overall business strategy and direction.
3. Develop and execute a 5-year strategic roadmap for Engineering Operations, Project Delivery, and Scheduling to support Traka UK’s growth plans and evolving customer needs.
4. Lead the continuous improvement and innovation agenda across all operational teams, driving process efficiencies, technology adoption, and scalable practices.
5. Champion and implement operational change management initiatives, aligning teams with evolving business goals and industry best practices.
6. Oversee resource planning, workload balancing, and skills development across teams to ensure effective delivery of projects and engineering solutions.
7. Ensure engineering and project operations are delivered on time, within budget, and to required quality standards.
8. Monitor and manage departmental budgets; proactively engage with Finance to provide accurate forecasting and visibility of upcoming costs, invoicing timelines, and third-party expenditure spikes.
9. Establish clear KPIs, reporting mechanisms, and feedback loops across operations to maintain high-performance culture and accountability.
10. Collaborate cross-functionally with Sales, Product, and Customer Services to ensure a seamless end-to-end customer delivery experience.
11. Identify and mitigate operational risks, ensuring compliance with all internal policies and industry regulations.
12. Drive a culture of safety, quality, and operational excellence across all touchpoints of project execution and engineering services.
13. Mentor and support leadership development of direct reports, fostering a high-performing, engaged, and motivated operations team.
Essential Skills & Experience:
* Proven track record in a senior leadership role within Engineering Operations, Project Management, or similar functions.
* Experience managing multi-disciplinary teams, including engineering, project delivery, and scheduling/resource planning.
* Strong background in driving operational change, process improvement, and implementing scalable solutions in a growing business.
* Strategic thinker with experience in developing and delivering multi-year business or operational plans.
* Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, control costs, and liaise effectively with finance for transparency and forecasting accuracy.
* Excellent stakeholder management skills with experience working cross-functionally across sales, finance, product, and service teams.
* Strong commercial awareness with the ability to align operational decisions with business goals.
* Comfortable operating at both strategic and hands-on levels, with a proactive and collaborative leadership style.
* Excellent communication, influencing, and presentation skills suitable for executive and SMT-level interactions.
Desirable Skills & Experience:
* Background in technology, security systems, or complex engineered solutions.
* Knowledge of ERP and project management systems/tools (e.g., ServiceMAX, MS Project, Monday.com, or similar).
* Experience managing third-party suppliers or subcontractors within project delivery environments.
* Familiarity with Lean, Six Sigma, or other process improvement methodologies.
* Exposure to international operations or working within a global business framework.
We are looking for bright, motivated, and passionate people to join our team.
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