Operations Manager – Water Lead Replacement Programme

About the role

We are seeking an Operations Manager to lead our Southwest Water Lead Replacement Programme across Devon, Cornwall and West Dorset. You will be accountable for safe, quality‑assured delivery in line with client specifications and reporting requirements.

Key responsibilities

• Manage a team of supervisors and oversee day‑to‑day delivery of the lead replacement programme.
• Coordinate programme resources, including subcontractors and on‑site support.
• Liaise with planning and street‑works teams to optimise resource allocation and ensure timely opening/closing of Street Works Notices.
• Maintain all required documentation (RAMS, waste management, CPP, COSHH, programme records, communications).
• Conduct site inductions, toolbox talks and ensure compliance with Network Plus HSEQ standards.
• Provide weekly progress and financial reports to the Delivery Manager and Project Manager.
• Manage commercial aspects such as change control, EW and instructions.
• Oversee handover and commissioning of new assets to SWW Operations and chair weekly coordination meetings.

Required profile

• Proven experience in lead replacement, customer pipes, service pipes and internal works.
• Strong knowledge of resource management, monitoring and control techniques.
• Familiarity with no‑dig methods and excavation/service avoidance best practices.
• Relevant H&S qualifications (IOSH, NEBOSH, SMSTS or equivalent).
• Understanding of NRSWA regulations, CDM 2015 and the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974.
• Financial awareness and ability to manage project budgets.

Required skills

• Lead replacement techniques
• No‑dig methods
• Resource management
• Monitoring and control
• IOSH certification
• NEBOSH certification
• SMSTS certification
• NRSWA regulations
• CDM 2015 compliance
• Excavation and service avoidance expertise