About the Role Highly capable Fleet Operations Manager – to lead and manage the safe, efficient delivery of field-based maintenance contracts. This is a key safety-critical role responsible for overseeing daily operations, coordinating third-party service providers, and ensuring contractual obligations are met in line with the highest safety and performance standards. Key Responsibilities * Lead a dedicated field services team and coordinate third-party suppliers to deliver planned and reactive maintenance * Champion a “Safety First” culture across all operations, setting the tone and leading by example * Act as the day-to-day interface with customers, their depot teams, service providers, and internal stakeholders * Ensure contract obligations are met through effective deployment of staff and resources * Manage resource planning, staff competencies, performance, and on-call coverage * Oversee tooling and materials availability in collaboration with internal support teams and the customer * Produce accurate and timely performance reports for both customer and internal governance * Maintain compliance through effective management of maintenance records within the Maintenance Management System (MMS) * Establish and optimise daily governance routines and drive continuous improvement * Support the resolution of customer concerns and contribute to contract planning, reforecasting, and budgeting Key Skills & Experience – Essential * Minimum 5 years' experience managing service-based rail operations, with direct team leadership responsibility * Strong knowledge of safety management practices * Proven ability to communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders * Experience in solving operational issues through structured, practical solutions * Strong planning, analytical, and decision-making skills * Resilient and confident under pressure, with a proactive approach to service delivery * Competent IT user – proficient with MS Word, Excel, and third-party maintenance management systems Desirable Skills & Experience * Experience with SAGE, Equinox, or other business systems/ERP solutions * Background in continuous improvement within maintenance operations * Experience managing third-party supply/service contracts (e.g., engine support) Qualifications * HNC/HND or equivalent in rail, engineering, or service operations (minimum) * Project Management and/or Leadership Training desirable Why Join * Play a pivotal role in delivering first-class rail maintenance services * Work with a collaborative and safety-focused team * Opportunities for career development and further leadership training * Highly competitive salary, benefits and career progression