Job Title

Head of Service DeliveryLocation: Oxford, HybridContract Type: PermanentIndustry: Aerospace ManufacturingSalary: Up to £110,000 per annumSummaryAs Head of Service Delivery, you will play a pivotal leadership role in ensuring the on-time, on-cost, and on-quality delivery of all commitments to both internal and external customers. You will uphold the highest standards of quality, safety, and operational excellence across multiple operational Delivery Teams. Acting as a key leader, you will drive customer satisfaction, operational and financial performance, and foster a culture of high performance within your teams.You will provide strategic leadership and oversight, deputising for the Head of Operations when required, representing the Operations Department to internal corporate stakeholders, local UK leadership, and external customers. You will be accountable for the end-to-end delivery performance of Civil and Defence support contracts and delivery projects, ensuring compliance with KPIs, SLAs, and contractual obligations.The role demands a strong track record in senior operations leadership, ideally within aerospace, defence, or highly regulated heavy engineering sectors. You will manage diverse operational teams across multiple contracts or programmes, with a deep understanding of support contracts, MRO operations, and complex project delivery. Your leadership will be instrumental in maintaining operational excellence, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with aviation regulations and safety standards.This position requires eligibility for Security Clearance (SC) and a DBS check. Compliance with Export Control Regulations is mandatory.SkillsProven senior operations leadership (8+ years) in aerospace, defence, or regulated heavy engineeringStrategic leadership and team management across multiple operational delivery teamsStrong knowledge of support contracts, Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) operationsExcellent communication, interpersonal, and influencing skills at all organisational levelsDemonstrable ability to manage complex projects and multiple priorities simultaneouslyData-driven decision-making with strong analytical and problem-solving skillsProficiency in operational excellence methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma) highly desirableSound commercial acumen including budget and financial managementKnowledge of aviation regulations and safety standardsEligibility for SC clearance and DBS check; compliance with Export Control RegulationsSoftware/ToolsOperational performance management systemsProject and programme management toolsData analysis and reporting softwareLean and Six Sigma toolsets (preferred)Certifications & StandardsBachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or related field (Master’s degree preferred)Security Clearance (SC) eligibilityDBS clearanceOperational excellence certifications (Lean, Six Sigma) highly desirableKnowledge of aviation safety and regulatory standards