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