Job Description

Job Title: Operations Manager

Location:

Maidstone, Kent (Hybrid with site travel)

Company:

Commercial Play Ltd

Salary:

Competitive + Performance Incentives

Contract Type:

Full-Time, Permanent

Start Date:

ASAP / Negotiable

About Us

Commercial Play Ltd (www.commercialplay.co.uk) is a leading UK supplier and installer of bespoke outdoor play environments and recreational spaces for schools, councils, and commercial clients. We deliver projects ranging from 50,000 to 1 million, combining creativity, safety, and high-quality project execution.

Operating in a competitive sector, we are known for our dynamic approach to sales and our commitment to delivering exceptional outcomes for clients. Due to continued growth, we are now seeking a highly organised and experienced Operations Manager to lead the operational delivery of our projects.

Role Purpose

This critical role is responsible for managing and streamlining the full operational process, from production and planning to installation and handover. The Operations Manager will coordinate across internal teams, suppliers, subcontractors, and clients to ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and to the highest quality standards.

Daily engagement with installers and clients is essential. You will be expected to maintain a live installation schedule, track progress, and produce clear reports on cost-to-completion for management review.

Key Responsibilities

Project Planning & Coordination

Manage end-to-end delivery of projects ranging from 50k-1m Conduct structured handovers from sales to operations Create and manage detailed project schedules and Gantt-style planners Ensure material procurement, manufacturing, and labour availability align with site programmes Coordinate surfacing and equipment installation sequencing across multiple live sites Maintain full compliance with BS EN 1176/1177, CDM regulations, and site-specific H&S protocols

Installer Oversight & Daily Progress Tracking

Act as daily point of contact for all installation teams Request and review daily updates, photos, and status reports from installers Verify that all works are being carried out to specification and agreed standards Monitor attendance and progress against programme; resolve issues proactively Implement tracking systems to ensure site accountability (e.g. digital sign-offs, checklists)

Client Communication & Site Reporting

Maintain daily communication with clients during live works Provide clear updates on programme, progress, site issues, and next steps Attend pre-start meetings, site visits, and handover inspections Handle customer concerns with urgency and professionalism Issue post-completion reports, including snagging, rectifications, and final certification

Installation Schedule & Cost-to-Completion Management

Own and maintain a centralized installation planner covering all live and upcoming projects Track actual vs planned timelines and flag risks or resource clashes Prepare and maintain weekly cost-to-completion reports, updating labour, material, and plant costs Provide weekly forecasts for project delivery and margin status Work with directors and finance to align delivery with commercial targets

Production & Logistics Oversight

Liaise with manufacturers and suppliers to coordinate equipment production and lead times Ensure all required materials and components are ordered and delivered on time Manage stock, storage, and delivery logistics to support install schedules Oversee any direct procurement requirements or urgent orders

Subcontractor Management

Brief and coordinate installation teams and subcontractors Vet and manage a growing network of trusted installation partners Maintain high standards through clear expectations, documentation, and inspection Review installer performance and manage any disputes or deficiencies

Operational Systems & Continuous Improvement

Refine internal systems for job tracking, installation reporting, and quality assurance Implement digital tools for scheduling, reporting, and document control Lead reviews of completed projects to identify improvements in delivery or process Support recruitment, training, and onboarding of operational staff

Key Skills & Experience

Essential:

Minimum 5 years' experience in operations/project management in construction, landscaping, or playground delivery Proven ability to manage high-value, multi-site installations to deadline and budget Strong communication and relationship-building skills with clients, installers, and suppliers Familiarity with UK building regulations, CDM, and play area standards (BS EN 1176/1177) Experience using project management tools (Smartsheet, Gantt charts, spreadsheets) Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel to sites nationally

Desirable:

Background in a similar industry sector. Understanding of surfacing installations (play equipment, outdoor structures,wetpour, rubber mulch, artificial grass) SMSTS, SSSTS, or NEBOSH certification Experience creating cost-to-completion reports or using margin forecasting tools Basic CAD or technical drawing interpretation skills

What We Offer

A key leadership position in a growing, dynamic business Opportunity to shape operational systems and contribute to strategic decisions Competitive salary + KPI-based performance bonuses Company vehicle or mileage allowance Supportive team culture and clear progression opportunities

To Apply

Please email your CV and a short cover letter to:

info@commercialplay.co.uk

Subject: Operations Manager Application

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 50,000.00-60,000.00 per year

Experience:

Play Industry: 3 years (preferred)
Work Location: In person

Reference ID: OPS 1001