Head of Operations

Are you a dynamic and results-oriented professional with a passion for high standards of customer service and a proven track record in operations management? We would love to hear from you.

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced individual to join our team as the UK Head of Operations for our thriving Arboriculture business, Gristwood and Toms. As the UK Head of Operations, reporting directly into the Managing Director for Arboriculture, you will play a pivotal role in overseeing the day-to-day operations and driving the growth and success of our business across the United Kingdom.

Gristwood and Toms is a combined £30 million per annum business working across both the local authority and commercial marketplace, directly employing around 150 experts, and a further 120 subcontracted service partners spreading the UK. We offer the following services to our client base:

• Tree surgery
• Tree Surveying and Consultancy
• Pest and Diseases
• Stump Grinding
• Tree Planting
• Surface Re-instatement
• Soil Root Zone Improvements
• Root Pruning
• Recycling of Associated Green Waste

Roles and Responsibilities:

1. Operational Leadership: Provide strategic direction and leadership to ensure the efficient and effective operation of our Arboriculture business in the UK. Oversee all aspects of operations, including procurement, inventory management, logistics, and customer service.
2. Team Management: Build and lead a high-performing operations team, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and accountability. Provide mentoring and guidance to team members, ensuring their professional development and success.
3. Business Development: Work with the Arboriculture Head of Sales, the Managing Director, and the Major Bids team to identify opportunities for growth and expansion within the UK market. Develop and implement strategies to drive sales, increase market share, and enhance customer satisfaction.
4. Process Improvement: Continuously evaluate and improve operational processes and workflows to enhance efficiency, productivity, and profitability. Implement best practices and innovative solutions to streamline operations and optimise resource allocation.
5. Vendor Management: Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, contractors, and other partners. Negotiate favourable contracts and terms to ensure timely delivery of quality products and services.
6. Quality Assurance: Ensure that all products meet high-quality standards and comply with relevant regulations. Implement quality control measures to monitor the performance of products and services, addressing any issues promptly.
7. Budgeting and Cost Control: Work with the MD, Group Head of Finance, and the Arboriculture Finance Manager to develop annual budgets and monitor expenses to ensure cost-effective operations. Identify areas for cost savings without compromising quality or customer satisfaction.
8. Reporting and Analysis: Prepare regular reports and analysis on key performance indicators, operational metrics, and financial data. Use data-driven insights to inform decision-making and drive continuous improvement.

Relevant Qualifications and Training:

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in the Arboriculture sector at Snr Manager level.
• Proven experience in a similar leadership role within a similarly sized service provider organisation or related field.
• Strong knowledge of Arboriculture operations management, including procurement, inventory control, logistics, and customer service.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire a diverse team.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement successful business strategies.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make informed decisions.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships with internal teams, clients, suppliers, and other stakeholders.
• Solid understanding of budgeting, financial analysis, and cost control principles.
• Knowledge of relevant regulations and quality standards within the Arboriculture industry.
• Degree in business management or a related field is preferred but not a necessity.

The Package:

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: £70,000 - £80,000

Supplemental Pay Types: Annual performance bonus

Location: Based out of our Shenley office, with travel to various locations throughout the UK

Benefits:

• Company Electric / hybrid car
• SMART pension
• Cycle to work scheme
• On-site parking
• Work from home
• Sick pay
• Health & wellbeing programme

Schedule:

• 40hr contract
• Monday to Friday

Gristwood & Toms, a Nurture Group company

At The Nurture Group, our purpose is to create a healthier, safer, and more beautiful world. We're committed to creating a workplace where diversity is celebrated, and every individual is empowered to thrive. We value the unique perspectives and experiences that each team member brings, and we're dedicated to building a culture of passion, respect, integrity, diversity, and expertise.

Nurture is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.