Thorn Baker is working in collaboration with a large Facilities Management company, based in the heart of London.
We are seeking an experienced and commercially driven Operations Manager to oversee a GBP 20 million mixed portfolio, specifically within the contract cleaning sector.
This role is responsible for leading multi:site operations, ensuring service excellence, driving profitability, maintaining strong client relationships across a diverse range of contracts (commercial, industrial, and specialist environments) and supporting the team with growth, training and progression.
This is a high:impact leadership role, reporting directly to the Managing Director and is suited to a strategic, results:driven professional who thrives in a fast:paced, service:led environment. You will play a key role in shaping operational excellence and delivering outstanding client value across a significant business portfolio.
Key Requirements Proven experience in a senior operations role within the contract cleaning or facilities management sector Demonstrated success managing large:scale, multi:site portfolios ( GBP 10M+ preferred) Strong financial acumen with P and L management experience Excellent leadership and people management skills Exceptional client:facing and stakeholder management abilities Strong understanding of compliance, health and safety, and service delivery standards Commercially astute with a track record of driving growth and profitability
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
Oversee day:to:day operations across a large, multi:site cleaning portfolio valued at GBP 20 million Ensure consistent delivery of high:quality cleaning services in line with contractual obligations and KPIs Implement and maintain best practices, operational efficiencies, and service innovations
Financial Management
Take full P and L responsibility for the portfolio Manage budgets, control costs, and drive margin improvement Identify growth opportunities within existing contracts and support new business initiatives
Client Relationship Management
Build and maintain strong relationships with key clients and stakeholders Act as the primary escalation point for major operational or service issues Lead contract reviews, renewals, and service expansion discussions
Team Leadership and Development
Lead, motivate, and develop a team of regional/site managers and supervisors Drive a high:performance culture focused on accountability, engagement, and continuous improvement Support recruitment, training, and succession planning initiatives
Compliance and Quality Assurance
Ensure full compliance with health and safety, environmental, and industry regulations Conduct regular audits and inspections to maintain service standards Implement corrective actions where necessary
Strategic Growth
Contribute to the strategic direction of the business unit Support tendering and mobilization of new contracts Identify innovation opportunities including technology, sustainability, and process improvements Key Requirements Proven experience in a senior operations role within the contract cleaning or facilities management sector Demonstrated success managing large:scale, multi:site portfolios ( GBP 10M+ preferred) Strong financial acumen with P and L management experience Excellent leadership and people management skills Exceptional client:facing and stakeholder management abilities Strong understanding of compliance, health and safety, and service delivery standards Commercially astute with a track record of driving growth and profitability TE1