Operations Manager – Fit-Out Specialist Location: Cambridge, with travel across East Anglia and London Salary: £75,000 – £85,000 Comprehensive Package About the Company Fairmead is exclusively partnering with an outstanding family-run principal contractor that has been shaping the fit-out industry for over 20 years. With several offices across the UK, they have built a reputation for delivering high-quality, bespoke fit-out projects across a variety of sectors. What sets this business apart is their genuine commitment to their people. They foster a cohesive, supportive environment where employees are encouraged to take ownership of their work and be part of the bigger picture. The culture is flexible and enjoyable, with the freedom to work from home when needed, while still being hands-on and involved in project delivery. Operating as a principal contractor, they deliver projects up to £2.5 million across: Commercial office fit-outs – Creating dynamic, high-spec workspaces Retail and hospitality – High-end, fast-track refurbishments for major brands and boutique venues Education – Fit-outs and refurbishments for schools, colleges, and universities Specialist and technical spaces – Including laboratories and research facilities High-end residential – Large-scale, luxury interior fit-out projects Following a strategic restructuring, the business is poised for growth, taking on larger, more complex projects as a principal contractor. They are now seeking an ambitious and commercially savvy operations manager who wants to play a key role in this expansion. The Role This isn’t just another operations role – this is an opportunity to be part of a leadership team that values your input, trusts you to take ownership, and encourages autonomy. As operations manager, you’ll report directly to the construction director, working closely with the commercial and production teams to ensure projects are delivered to the highest standard. You’ll be the glue between the teams, ensuring smooth collaboration and seamless project execution. The role is hands-on, dynamic, and client-facing, offering plenty of variety and the opportunity to be involved in both delivery and strategic business growth. Key Responsibilities Oversee multiple fit-out projects, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standard Work closely with estimators and surveyors to support tendering and commercial decision-making Act as the client-facing lead, building long-term relationships and representing the company with professionalism and integrity Take ownership of site teams, subcontractors, and suppliers, ensuring smooth project execution Help shape the business as it scales up to take on larger, more complex fit-out projects Ensure all projects adhere to health and safety regulations, company policies, and industry standards Travel across East Anglia and London to stay actively involved in project delivery What We’re Looking For A proven leader in operations, contracts, or project management within the fit-out sector Experience delivering projects up to £2.5 million as a principal contractor Strong commercial awareness with an ability to bridge the gap between production and commercial teams A natural relationship builder, comfortable in a client-facing role Any industry contacts or business development experience would be advantageous but not essential A hands-on, proactive approach, with a willingness to be involved both on-site and in the office Ideally based within an hour to an hour and a half of Cambridge What’s on Offer? £75,000 - £85,000 salary plus a comprehensive benefits package A genuine family-run business with a tight-knit, supportive team A flexible, enjoyable working environment with autonomy and trust Opportunities to work from home when needed, while still being hands-on The chance to help shape the future of a growing business and take on larger, more prestigious projects Apply Now This is more than just a job – it’s a career-defining opportunity with a company that truly values its people. If you’re a hands-on, commercially aware operations manager who wants to play a key role in a growing business, we want to hear from you. To apply, submit your CV or contact Fairmead for a confidential discussion