Operations Manager – Repairs & Maintenance

About the role

The Operations Manager (Repairs & Maintenance) will report to the Head of Direct Services and lead the delivery of responsive repairs and maintenance services for Southern Housing in East London. The role is hybrid – three days in the office and two days remote – and offers a competitive rate of £46 per hour for a 37‑hour week.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee a £5 million budget and ensure value for money across all repair activities.
• Manage four direct reports and a team of 30+ operatives, technicians and specialist subcontractors.
• Deliver safe, efficient services that meet performance standards and regulatory requirements.
• Coordinate self‑delivery labour and subcontracted repairs, monitoring demand on a weekly‑to‑annual basis.
• Maintain compliance with building regulations, housing regulations and contract terms.

Required profile

• Proven experience as a Repairs Manager or similar within the social housing sector.
• Background with a Tier 1 maintenance contractor or large Direct Labour Organisation in a housing association.
• Demonstrated ability to drive operational excellence and achieve cost efficiencies.

Required skills

• Strong knowledge of building regulations and housing regulations (HHSRS, HRBs, Building Safety Act, Awaab's).
• Expertise in NHF Schedule of Rates (SOR) v7+ and contract management.
• Budget management and financial reporting.
• Contractor and multi‑trade self‑delivery management.

What we offer

• £46 per hour, 37‑hour week.
• Hybrid working model (3 days office, 2 days remote).
• Temporary full‑time assignment with potential for extension.