Operations Manager – Employability & Skills
Location: Leicester or Alcester (with regional travel across the Midlands)
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Salary: From £35,000 per annum + bonus (dependent on experience)
About the Role
LT Selection is proud to be recruiting exclusively on behalf of our client – a purpose-driven organisation committed to delivering impactful outcomes through employability programmes.
We’re seeking a motivated and experienced Operations Manager to oversee the performance and development of delivery teams supporting unemployed individuals through government-funded employability contracts. You’ll play a pivotal role in ensuring operational excellence, team leadership, compliance, and stakeholder engagement across key sites in the Midlands region.
The ideal candidate will have prior experience managing contracts such as Restart, Work and Health, or similar initiatives within the skills and employment space.
Key Responsibilities
Contract Delivery & Operational Oversight
Ensure full compliance with programme contracts, guidance, and performance frameworks
Build and maintain strong working relationships with Jobcentre Plus, local authorities, employers, and referral partners
Monitor and manage contractual performance, service quality, and financial efficiency
Lead regular internal reporting, performance reviews, and compliance audits
Collaborate with internal and external partners to support participant progression into employment or training
Maintain accurate, audit-ready records and reports across delivery locations
Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and promote a quality-driven culture
People Management & Leadership
Lead, coach, and support teams including Team Leaders, Employment Coaches, and Administrators
Conduct regular 1:1s, performance reviews, and observations to support team development
Set clear KPIs and performance expectations in line with contractual outcomes
Foster a high-performing, inclusive team culture that supports staff wellbeing
Support staff with ongoing professional development and CPD activity
Stakeholder Engagement
Act as a key point of contact for local and regional stakeholders
Promote partnership working across the sector to strengthen participant referral pathways
Represent the organisation at meetings, events, and forums as required
Operational Excellence
Ensure each delivery site is well-managed, safe, and compliant with all safeguarding and H&S requirements
Oversee financial claims, reporting schedules, and contribution to budget management
Promote innovation, collaboration, and accountability across delivery
About You
Essential
Proven experience managing delivery within employability, skills, or public services
Strong working knowledge of employability programmes (e.g., Restart, Work and Health)
Effective leadership, coaching, and people management skills
Ability to build partnerships with external agencies, employers, and referral networks
Confident in monitoring performance against KPIs and contract requirements
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
Proficient with Microsoft Office and case management systems
Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel regionally
Desirable
Knowledge of the local labour market and training providers
Understanding of welfare benefits systems and barriers to employment
First Aid or Mental Health First Aid trained
Experience leading quality or compliance improvements in a contract-led environment
Why Join?
Opportunity to lead impactful work that supports people into meaningful employment
Join a values-led team with a strong culture of collaboration and continuous improvement
Competitive salary with performance bonus
Professional development and leadership growth opportunities