Operations Manager

Application Deadline: 5 January 2026Department: Operations and MaintenanceLocation: Durham Gate Office, County DurhamDescriptionAbout Breedon Group:Breedon Group plc is a leading vertically integrated construction materials group in Great Britain, Ireland, and the USA. We're dedicated to providing high-quality materials and services for the construction industry, with a commitment to safety, sustainability, and innovation. Joining Breedon means becoming part of a team that values excellence and is committed to making a positive impact.Position OverviewWe are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Operations Manager who will be the driving force behind the performance, development, and wellbeing of our Readymix plants across the North of the area ( Northumberland / Tyne and Wear ). Your key responsibility is to lead and develop your team, ensuring they are supported, competent, and motivated to deliver safely, efficiently, and profitably.You will set expectations, provide coaching, and create a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement. While technical knowledge is important, your priority will be people leadership; growing capability, succession planning, and ensuring the operational team has the confidence, tools, and mindset to thrive in a changing environment.Key ResponsibilitiesLead, coach, and develop the operational management team to deliver high standards of safety, efficiency, quality, and cost control.Set clear expectations, KPI’s and development plans for all direct reports, ensuring accountability and progress against agreed objectivesConduct regular 1:1s, performance development reviews, and talent reviews to identify strengths, address gaps, and build succession plansChampion a culture of visible leadership, open communication, and shared learning across all operationsDrive engagement, culture-building initiatives, and moraleSupport change management efforts and communicate business updates effectivelyEnsure all sites are effectively planned, resourced, and run in a way that meets customer needs while controlling cost and maintaining reliabilityWork collaboratively with Commercial Managers to align production with customer demand, seasonality, and strategic goalsDrive effective communication between operations, distribution, transport, technical, and commercial teamsRepresent the company professionally with key external stakeholders including EA, local authorities, BSI, and neighboursEnsure full compliance with procurement, contractor, and cost control procedures across all operationsChallenge inefficiencies and support your managers in introducing sustainable improvements and new ways of workingAssist the Readymix Manager in developing and delivering area strategy, CAPEX planning, business cases, and improvement projectsWork with the finance and commercial teams to analyse costs, monitor spend, and ensure value is delivered in all areas of responsibilityEnsure full compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental legislation, including the Mines & Quarries Act 1954 and Health & Safety at Work Act 1974.Promote a proactive safety culture through visible leadership, inspections, near-miss reporting, and structured site reviews.Skills, Knowledge & ExpertiseSignificant experience in readymix operations or extractive industries, with a proven leadership track recordStrong knowledge of health, safety, and environmental regulations and best practices relevant to quarryingStrong leadership and people management skills with the ability to motivate, mentor, challenge, and inspireCommercial awareness and confidence to contribute to strategic planning and decision-makingHigh personal accountability with the drive to make things better and lead by exampleExcellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a focus on collaboration, listening, and clarityStrong analytical and organisational abilitiesA full UK driving licence and flexibility to travel as required.DesirableNVQ Level 4/5 in Health, Safety & Environmental ManagementJob BenefitsA tailored, competitive salaryCompany Pension Scheme25 days annual leave, plus bank holidays on topShare Saver Scheme participationCompany Life Assurance SchemeAccess to our Employee Assistance Programme for health and wellbeing supportDiscounts on a wide range of products through our employee benefits platformBroad learning opportunities and career progression pathways.Diversity StatementAt Breedon Group, we are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity is valued. We believe in equality of opportunity for all and encourage applications from a diverse range of candidates.Join UsIf you're looking for a role that challenges you, offers progression, and contributes to building better futures, we'd love to hear from you. This position is an opportunity to grow your career within a supportive and dynamic environment at Breedon Group.Application ProcessReady to make a meaningful difference? Apply now by submitting your CV and cover letter. We look forward to considering your application and potentially welcoming you to our team.

Created: 2025-12-12