Head of Regional Operations Permanent Role Location: National/Hybrid Hours: Monday to Friday working 09.00-17.00 Pay: Annual Salary ranges from £65,000 to £75,000 Join Our Team as a Head of Regional Operations About the Role: The Head of Regional Operations is responsible for the delivery of service and business outcomes across a portfolio of sites in the regions of the UK and Ireland. The role leads the daily delivery of contractual commitments, Service Level Agreements, Key Performance Indicators and importantly, leadership, management and colleague engagement “The WJ Way”, to ensure and assure client, passenger and stakeholder NPS and brand reputation. Through continuously improving the operational framework, service oversight, day-to-day leadership and management, this role is focused on aviation security and assistance service services across the WJ Aviation & Transport regional airport portfolio. This includes but is not limited to, safety, operational delivery, contractual and regulatory compliance, in addition to client relationship management and team development. They will be an integral part of the Aviation Senior Management Team; driving operational excellence and service innovation, ensuring safety, and continuous improvement. The role also includes some overseas advisory, providing expertise on best practices, operational improvement, and service development across global airports. The successful candidate will lead and inspire teams, collaborate with key stakeholders, and maintain high standards in operational performance to deliver value to all parties. This position requires a proactive and data-driven leader who will motivate and empower our regional airport teams to deliver exceptional service and drive growth. As a Head of Regional Operations you will be responsible for: Service Delivery Lead and manage teams to ensure and assure the delivery of service to clients, colleagues and passengers across regional aviation contracts, with a focus on Aviation Security and Assistance Services within our commercial frameworks Ensure contracts are delivered in accordance with SLAs, KPIs, regulatory standards, and WJ policies Drive continuous improvement through proactive reviews and developing lean operational initiatives and implementation and benefit delivery of operations transformation projects on regional sites Team Leadership and Management Effective leadership of c400 team members, with respect and sensitivity to local culture and policies Direct line management of Station Managers, Contract Managers, Team Leaders Foster a high-performance culture amongst the team that is focused on development and engagement Ensure training, development and succession planning are in place to grow internal talent Client & Stakeholder Management Develop and maintain excellent and proactive relationships with airports, airlines, regulators and service partners Represent WJ at external forums and industry events Commercial Management Monitor contract profitability and operational efficiency, proactively managing budgets and forecasts Work with Finance and Commercial teams to manage contract variations and forecast performance Work with Bid Solutions to support tender submissions for regional opportunities Identify and deliver added-value initiatives that enhance client satisfaction and deliver ROI and manage risk Collaboration and Business Leadership Work in lock step with colleagues across the Aviation and Transport Division and Operations Support to drive value and delivery of the Wilson James Blueprint Proactively consider business leadership, improvement and growth ideas and collaborate with colleagues to review their value and potential for implementation Deliver WJ sustainability goals within the Regional Airport Portfolio Compliance & Safety Always champion safety across all operations and deliver against Senior Manager standards, including Safety Visits and Audits Technology & Innovation Support the rollout and operationalisation of digital tools to enhance service delivery Analyse data and trends to inform operational decision making Why Join Us? Annual leave entitlement of 5.6 weeks Lifestyle Benefits – Mortgage and financial advice, vouchers for various shopping outlets and food stores, employee referral scheme. Learning & Development – we actively encourage progression and offer various eLearning courses, progression, training whilst on site, apprenticeships, and in-house training courses. Health and Wellbeing – Life assurance scheme, access to mental health support specialists Access to an Online GP for you and your dependents. Financial support Discounts on hundreds of retail sites Progression opportunities – many of our team go on to senior and site management roles A welcoming, respectful team culture Cycle to Work scheme What we are looking for: Proven experience in operational leadership within aviation, transport or complex service environments Comprehensive understanding of relevant aviation operations regulations Experience in leading and managing teams, with strong motivational and people management skills Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to interact with a wide range of stakeholders Ability to drive performance and maintain service standards in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment Data-driven approach to performance management, with the ability to analyse and respond to operational trends Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to manage operational challenges and risks Experience in managing budgets, resources, and recruitment processes. Strong understanding of health and safety legislation, with experience in risk management and compliance audits Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel weekly across regional sites Interested? Apply now and secure your future with us! Please be aware that, on occasion, we may close a vacancy earlier than the advertised deadline if we receive a high volume of strong applications Wilson James is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age. A criminal conviction will not necessarily be a bar to obtaining a position, however each case will be assessed on an individual basis. For information about Wilson James' commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, https://wilsonjames.co.uk/sustainability Wilson James have been raising standards in security, construction logistics, aviation services, and technology for over 30 years. With 5,000 employees and a presence across over 300 client sites all over the UK, we are dedicated to delivering tailored solutions and top-tier customer service. As a leading managed service provider, we prioritise safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Joining Wilson James offers the excitement of working with diverse, vibrant clients, making for a dynamic and engaging workplace. Internal Applicants At Wilson James, we support career growth and offer internal mobility to help employees explore new roles and advance within the company. Committed to promoting from within, we provide clear career pathways and continuous skill development. Unlock your potential by applying for exciting internal opportunities and new challenge.