Job Description
Universal Works has built its reputation on thoughtful design, honest craftsmanship, and a way of working that values substance over noise. As we grow, we're looking for someone who brings that same rigour to how we operate.
This is a new role, and a significant one. As Operations Project Manager, you'll lead cross-functional projects that improve the systems, processes, and ways of working that underpin everything we do. You'll be the person who gets things moving, keeps them on track, and makes sure change sticks.
What you'll do
* Translate company priorities into operational roadmaps, turning strategic ambitions into clear, actionable plans across the business.
* Review and document existing processes, identifying opportunities for improvement and designing better ways of working where needed.
* Lead initiatives to improve efficiency, scalability, and visibility across operations, supporting the implementation of new systems and tools including ERP and WMS.
* Plan, manage, and deliver operational projects from initiation to completion, defining scope, objectives, timelines, and success metrics, and managing budgets, risks, and resources throughout.
* Ensure clear communication and documentation across all project lifecycles, keeping stakeholders informed and aligned at every stage.
* Lead change management: building stakeholder engagement, executing targeted communication plans, addressing resistance, and ensuring new processes are successfully embedded.
* Define and monitor KPIs and operational performance metrics, producing regular project updates and post-implementation reviews.
What we're looking for
Essential:
– Proven experience in an operations or project management role in a retail environment
– Strong understanding of supply chain, production, or retail operations
– Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities calmly
– A clear, confident communicator who can adapt to different audiences
– Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
– Demonstrated ability to manage stakeholders at all levels
– Experience in fashion, apparel, manufacturing, or consumer goods
Desirable:
– Familiarity with ERP or operational systems
– Formal project management qualification (e.g., PRINCE2, Agile, PMP)
– Process improvement qualification (e.g., Lean Six Sigma)
– Experience in change management
– Experience in business analysis or requirements gathering
Who you are
You're practical and proactive, someone who spots a problem and gets on with solving it. You're organised, collaborative, adaptable, and curious enough to keep asking why things are done the way they are. You care about doing things properly, and you're motivated by the idea of leaving things better than you found them.
What's in it for you
* Competitive salary
* 28 days of holiday increasing with length of service
* Employee discount and clothing allowance
* Access to discounts platform and employee assistant programme
* Opportunity to shape the inner workings of Universal Works
To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter to jobs@universalworks.com
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