Job Description

Chief Operating Officer - UK Construction & Fit-Out

200,000 - 240,000 base + bonus + equity

Central London HQ | Full-time | Office-visible | Permanent

On behalf of one of the world's largest construction and real estate firms, we are seeking an exceptional Chief Operating Officer to lead the UK commercial fit-out division, with a particular focus on high-spec office, hospitality, and residential environments.

This is a pivotal executive appointment at the heart of a Tier 1 organisation with an ambitious UK growth mandate. Reporting directly to the CEO, the COO will assume full operational leadership, driving both strategic and day-to-day execution across a complex, high-value portfolio. The role is based in the company's Central London headquarters, with national travel as required.

Key Highlights:

Equity participation: Shares issued post-probation, linked to a planned future liquidity event, offering significant six-figure upside potential. Transformation remit: You will lead operational transformation across people, systems, supply chain, and process - ensuring scalability, governance, and delivery excellence. Breadth of exposure: Oversight of full asset lifecycle - from new site delivery and refurbishments, to estate operations, maintenance systems, contract reviews, and financial performance.
Candidate Profile:

We are seeking a proven operational leader with a strong pedigree in the built environment - ideally from within commercial fit-out, high-rise residential, luxury hospitality, or large-scale workplace developments. You will bring:

A track record of successfully delivering high-value construction or fit-out projects within complex, multi-stakeholder environments. Deep understanding of building regulations, health and safety, and operational readiness in high-footfall spaces. Proven leadership within a matrix or multi-site business, ideally with prior experience driving transformation across large teams and technical operations. Strong commercial acumen with comfort across financial reporting, systems implementation, subcontractor negotiation, and risk management. Exceptional stakeholder management and board-level communication skills. Academic background ideally includes an MBA and a degree in Construction, Engineering, Real Estate, or related disciplines. A stable, upward career trajectory within well-regarded organisations. A strategic mindset combined with hands-on delivery capability and the ability to build and resource high-performance teams.
This is a rare opportunity to shape and lead the UK arm of a global real estate powerhouse during a phase of high growth, innovation, and value creation. Please DO NOT apply if you had more than 2 roles in the last 5 years.

To Apply:

For a confidential discussion or to submit your CV, please contact:

ExecutiveSearch@owlrecruitment.co.uk

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 200,000.00-240,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company car Employee mentoring programme Employee stock ownership plan Financial planning services Profit sharing UK visa sponsorship
Work Location: In person