Job Description
The M25 is one of our Flagship projects in the UK! It is the most used part of the UK Strategic Road Network with it seeing over 200,000 vehicles per day and it’s a critical infrastructure asset for personal and goods vehicles into and around our capital. The network includes around 800 structures and 5 tunnels, so it requires high levels of performance, constant improvement and repairs to keep it operating smoothly.
We’ve formed a Joint Venture project called Connect Plus Services (CPS) to work with our partners to widen, operate and maintain the M25 under a 30-year contract and we are looking for a Network Operations Director. Leading a team of 300 employees this person will be responsible for our on-road operations such as Incident & Emergency response, network access & control room and network resilience & security.
As the Network Operations Director you will be leading the teams responsible for keeping the network safe and serviceable 24 hours a day whilst balancing contractual & performance KPIs including Incident Response (Primary & Secondary); CAT 1 defect repairs (7 and 28 day); 7 Day Road space Accuracy.
Key responsibilities:
The Network Operations Directorate will deliver exceptional customer experiences on this iconic critical infrastructure, and drive high performance in network management, emergency response, and security services.
This pivotal role leads a team of three hundred dedicated professionals, driving excellence across various critical functions with our commitment to continually advance our service.
You will inspire three key divisions: On road operations, network Management, and network services – each essential to our mission.
You will leverage on your expert stakeholder management skills to navigate and resolve complex challenges with assurance. This role will allow you to play a vital role in guaranteeing the safety and reliability of the road users’ journeys and contributing to our operational success.
The three key accountable areas are:
* On Road Operations
o Leading CPS’ on-road operations, delivering a safe network for our customers and reliable journey times. This includes responsibility for our Incident & Emergency Response, emergency repairs, winter gritting decisions and delivery across twenty-seven gritting routes.
* Network Management (Access and Control Hub)
o We are in an exciting phase of improvement and how we manage the access to our network. The Scheduling team manage the planning of cyclical, defect management and emergency works, ensuring the CPS team and all other CP supply chain, have access to the network. There is also the responsibility of monitoring KPI compliance, and risk and contingency management of the network.
o Our control room is a 24/7 operation monitoring incidents, works and traffic activity on the network. The team liaise with National Highways Control Rooms around incidents, manage the chain of command, and dispatch resources as appropriate. The team also play a key role providing insight and intelligence on network risk and incidents
* Network Services
o The team are responsible for security and resilience of the Network (including CPS depots and offices) and delivering the contractual obligations. CPS Security team consults with several stakeholders around risks to the M25 network, including Connect Plus, National Highways and Emergency Services.
o The team investigate criminal offences such as fly tipping, theft and suspected terrorist related activity and collaborate closely with the local Police and external agencies. We also operate security patrols at Dartford Crossing, Dartford cycle services, Abnormal Loads and Dangerous Goods Movements from the Kent Marshalling Area.
o The team is responsible for overseeing Fleet Management and ensuring compliance across our entire delivery network, including vehicle maintenance, regulatory adherence, operational efficiency, and safety protocols. By implementing best practices and monitoring performance, they help streamline logistics, reduce risks, and enhance overall service reliability
Qualifications
We work in a challenging environment with a wide range of employees and expect a lot from our people and whilst we are looking for someone who can demonstrate the below experience or capability, we offer support and development for all our employees.
* Successful track record of effective leadership in highways operations infrastructure, construction, or a similar industry with transferrable expertise, including P&L
* Bring a personal relentless focus on Zero Harm
* Demonstrated ability to resolve complex issues and make informed decisions quickly in a fast-paced, reactive environment.
* Strong ability to engage effectively with all levels, including Board Members and client Executives, and build and maintain healthy relationships
* Capable of inspiring teams by leading by example on behavioural standards to drive the highest standards, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and deliver operational excellence
* Experience in leading multi-disciplinary teams, ensuring cohesion, and optimising workforce performance.
* Strong aptitude for promoting and upholding the highest standards and regulatory compliance.
* Ability to be resilient and adaptable in a dynamic environment and encompass a high degree of empathy and support
Additional Information
Working arrangements:
Base location can be either Dartford, Leatherhead or South Mimms
Monday - Friday, however due to the nature of work there may be occasional night visits and HSW tours required.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
We are an Equal Opportunities employer and we strive to build a workforce that truly reflects the communities we represent. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds, regardless of age, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, and any other protected characteristic. If you decide to apply for an opportunity with us, your application will be assessed based purely on your experience, the essential and desirable criteria, and your suitability for the role. We value each and every one’s contribution as this builds our culture and means that if you work with us, you will be included, listened to, and respected.