AW Safety is a leading Health & Safety consultancy delivering practical, compliant, and client-focused solutions across the UK.
Our team of experienced consultants supports businesses in construction, manufacturing, logistics, and facilities management, providing tailored advice, audits, and compliance services that help organisations meet their legal obligations and operate safely.
Through our integrated systems, IRM Connect and HubSpot CRM , we deliver consistent, high-quality service, combining traditional consultancy expertise with modern operational efficiency.
We're a growing, forward-thinking business built on professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to raising standards across the industry.
Role Purpose
The Operations Manager will oversee the delivery and operational performance of AW Safety's Consultancy Division, covering both Health & Safety and HR consulting services. This senior management role ensures that service delivery consistently meets regulatory standards, internal quality benchmarks, client expectations and company growth goals.
You will drive operational excellence through the development, streamlining, and implementation of efficient internal systems and quality assurance frameworks. You will also lead, coach, and develop a high-performing consultancy team while maintaining a small portfolio of key client relationships (approximately 20% of their working time).
This role is pivotal to delivering scalable growth, exceptional client experience, and robust governance across the division.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Leadership & Service Delivery
Oversee all aspects of consultancy service delivery across Health & Safety and HR functions, ensuring compliance with SLAs and a consistent high standard of client experience.
Lead and manage the team of consultants, ensuring optimal workload distribution, service quality, and professional development.Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs), workflows, and tools to improve productivity, accuracy, and client satisfaction.Introduce and manage quality assurance systems to ensure all consultancy output meets legislative, regulatory, and internal competency standards.Oversee delivery capacity planning and resource scheduling to maximise efficiency and chargeable time.Drive continuous improvement initiatives using client feedback, performance data, and operational insights through systems and technology.Collaborate closely with the Business Support and Sales teams to ensure seamless client onboarding, service delivery, and retention.People & Performance ManagementProvide clear direction, support, and performance management for the consultancy team, including regular 1-1s, appraisals, and coaching.
Build a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning.Support consultants in achieving and maintaining professional accreditations and technical competencies.Identify skills gaps and implement training or mentoring to strengthen team capability, including implementing a training "Academy" to onboard new consultants.Compliance & Quality AssuranceMaintain oversight of legislative compliance and ensure all consultancy activity adheres to regulatory requirements and professional standards.
Ensure alignment with internal governance, ISO standards (e.g., ISO 45001), and any accreditation requirements.Lead internal audits and reviews to verify the quality of work, consistency, and client satisfaction.Manage escalation of complex or sensitive client issues, ensuring timely and professional resolution.Client & Commercial ManagementMaintain a small portfolio of key retained clients, delivering consultancy support to a high professional standard.
Act as an escalation point for complex or strategic client relationships.Contribute to strategic planning, service development, and growth initiatives for the consultancy division.Support business development activities through operational insights and input into proposals, tenders, or new service lines.Provide regular reporting to senior leadership on performance, client satisfaction, and operational issues. This will include regular meetings with the CEO, Group General Manager and Group Finance Manager.Identify trends and opportunities for improvement in consultancy delivery and client engagement.Contribute to strategic planning and input into the development of new services or sectors.Person Specification
NEBOSH Diploma (or equivalent Level 6 qualification in Occupational Health & Safety).Actively working towards Chartered Membership of IOSH (CMIOSH), with demonstrable CPD record.Proven leadership and operational management experience within a health and safety consultancy or professional services environment.Strong understanding of service delivery frameworks.Demonstrable experience developing and improving operational processes and SOPs.Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and problem-solving skills.Ability to influence, motivate, and lead a multidisciplinary team.Chartered Member of IOSH (CMIOSH).Experience implementing ISO management systems (especially ISO 45001).Experience managing cross-functional teams or multi-service delivery.Leadership & People Development.Operational & Strategic Management.Quality & Compliance Oversight.Client Relationship Management.Decision-Making & Accountability.Technical Expertise in Health & Safety.Adaptability and a continuous improvement mindset.Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Full-time
Industries
Business Consulting and Services
J-18808-Ljbffr