Head of PMO & Operations
Leeds, Manchester – (Hybrid, Office, Site)
Permanent
Competitive Salary + Car/Allowance + Flexible Benefits
The Head of PMO & Operations will lead the development of the operational structure, governance and processes for the business unit(s). This role ensures all projects proceed with the appropriate risk management, programme and governance in place, develops staff to meet business requirements and client expectations, and reports financial and commercial progress to the senior leadership team (SLT), focusing on WIP/Debt, high‑level utilisation, revenue and margin. The postholder will support wider strategy, lead a high‑performing team and uphold governance and compliance standards.
Key Deliverables
* Maintain strong financial health and safety performance, ensuring compliance with regulatory and legislative standards.
* Lead and mentor a collaborative, innovative team and encourage continuous improvement.
* Support Health and Safety (SHEQ), ensuring procedures, processes and KPIs are met and recorded for audit.
* Develop and deliver leadership qualities, set objectives, manage performance and identify talent and successors.
* Engage regularly with staff to deliver business strategy through clear communication.
* Align policies and processes to changing business requirements while driving performance.
* Provide technical advice and guidance to build a strong reputation for effective delivery.
* Maintain client relationships and pursue new work leads.
* Prepare and present high‑quality operational and financial reports to the Freedom SLT and stakeholders.
* Ensure compliance with statutory regulations and policies.
* Develop and implement growth strategies, staying abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies.
* Own and manage annual and monthly budgets and forecasting, meeting work volumes, profit targets and non‑financial goals such as recruitment and retention.
* Build relationships with clients and internal stakeholders in cross‑functional teams to align goals with company objectives.
* Support bid activity with the Business Development team to achieve professional, profitable and successful outcomes.
* Link growth ambitions to revenue, recruitment and business development strategies, identifying clear action plans to meet growth objectives.
Essential Qualifications and Experience
* Operational leadership role with a track record of managing a large team and multiple projects.
* Proficiency with Primavera P6 project programmes and key attributes such as Critical Path, SPI/CPI, Earned Value.
* 10+ years of technical expertise in the required discipline, demonstrating solution‑finding through critical technical thinking.
* Understanding of financial statements and project financial metrics.
* Experience with JCT, NEC3/4 contracts and variations on large projects.
* Ability to drive strategic improvement initiatives while managing project/client requirements.
* Strong prioritisation and multi‑tasking skills.
* Experience on large‑scale infrastructure projects in Energy, Power, Nuclear, Water, Transport or Linear sectors.
* Knowledge of UK statutory and regulatory frameworks (e.g., Electricity Act, Planning Act).
* Strong leadership and stakeholder engagement skills.
* Track record of successful delivery across multiple complex projects.
Desirable Qualifications and Experience
* Energy sector experience, specifically Electricity sector OHL/underground cabling projects requiring consent.
* Digital credentials; understanding of Teams, SharePoint, business EM software and BIM.
* Utilities, energy or transport sector experience.
* Experience on DCOs or large‑scale infrastructure projects.
* Familiarity with GIS and land referencing software.
* Understanding of environmental permitting and ecological constraints.
Qualifications & Professional Memberships
* Chartership and/or qualification in APM or similar.
* Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g., RICS, APM, CMI).
* Degree in relevant discipline.
* NEBOSH Construction.
* Project Management qualification from relevant industry bodies such as APM, PMI.
Benefits
* Competitive salary.
* Car or car allowance.
* 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
* Pension with a leading provider and employer contribution.
* Sick pay.
* Personal wellbeing and volunteer days.
* Private medical insurance.
* Free 24/7 365 employee assistance program.
* Flexible benefits: dental insurance, gym membership, give‑as‑you‑earn, travel insurance, tax‑free bikes.
* Personal development programme.
Next Steps
As a business, we’re on a journey to build an inclusive, fair and respectful culture. We’ll outline the recruitment process with ample notice and accommodations if needed.
About Freedom
Freedom is part of the NG Bailey Group, one of the UK’s leading independent engineering and services businesses. Founded in 1921, with a turnover of £500m and 3000 employees, we invest in training and development. We work across building and infrastructure sectors, delivering ground‑breaking projects with the latest tools and technology. Progression is a priority – we provide a clear development path, regular reviews and ongoing support to help you excel.
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