RESPONSIBLE FOR: The Operations Manager provides structure, consistency, and operational clarity across Countryscape
TIME/DURATION: 37 hours per week
CONTRACT: 12-month FTC (with potential extension)
LOCATION: Based in Manchester with the opportunity for hybrid working. You may occasionally be required to travel to meetings around the UK and Europe.
BACKGROUND
Countryscape is a multi-disciplinary company, combining the creative skills of a communications agency with the scientific knowledge of an environmental consultancy.
Countryscape is also a partner in Oppla, an open platform with a mission to connect people around the world in creating, sharing and safeguarding environmental knowledge. Oppla is the world's largest community on nature-based solutions and offers a permanent home for the outputs of research and innovation projects. Users of the Oppla platform can create their own communities and share case studies, resources, events and news on climate and nature-related topics.
Oppla hosts many different communities that are organised into projects and also by topics. Our communities mostly comprise scientists and academics from the research and innovation sector, with a focus on the environment. But they also include policymakers, businesses, practitioners working on practical projects, students, and civil society organisations, including community groups and interested members of the public.
The Operations & Business Manager provides structure, consistency, and operational clarity across Countryscape. The role oversees systems, IT, compliance, and internal processes to ensure smooth project delivery and free the Directors to focus on clients, creative work, and business growth. This position blends hands-on operational management with forward planning and proactive problem-solving.
WHO WE ARE
We're a small but growing team united by a passion for making a real difference for our planet. We all take ownership of our work, shaping it to fit our own unique skills, expertise and ways of working. We value diversity among people and perspectives and have a culture where we listen carefully and speak openly to one another. This role is ideal for someone open-minded, eager to learn from others, and ready to approach challenges with creativity and positivity.
This role is based at our Manchester office with home working once or twice a week when you have settled into the role. The diversity of our workforce is important to us, and we encourage applications from all backgrounds and identities. We also encourage applications from candidates who may not meet every requirement but have relevant skills, experience, and a willingness to learn.
JOB SUMMARY
Systems & Processes
Implement efficient workflows and streamline tools across the business.
Maintain and improve Jira, including board configuration, dashboards, and user support.
Document internal processes and build an operational handbook.
Ensure tools, platforms, and documentation support smooth collaboration and delivery.
IT & Infrastructure
Oversee IT systems, hardware, software licences, and renewals.
Manage cybersecurity basics, backups, and access permissions.
Work closely with external IT providers to ensure prompt support and reliable infrastructure.
Report regularly to the Technical Director on IT needs, risks, and improvements.
Operations & Compliance
Ensure GDPR, Health & Safety, insurance, data retention, and people policies are up to date.
Maintain an annual compliance calendar and ensure actions are completed.
Ensure contracts, frameworks, and supplier agreements follow internal standards.
Support operational audits and maintain accurate records.
Director Support
Turn high-level decisions into clear operational actions and track progress.
Maintain forward planners, priorities lists, and critical deadlines.
Highlight risks, bottlenecks, or resource gaps.
Support tender writing, proposals, and business documentation as required.
Office Management
Ensure workplace compliance and safety, including:
o Fire risk assessments
o Health & Safety checks
PAT testing
Liaise with building management or office providers regarding workspace needs.
Bookings & Coordination
Coordinate travel, accommodation, and logistics for senior leaders.
Manage training registrations, external bookings, and event coordination.
Oversee software licence allocations and renewals.
Finance
Monitor budgets, track spending, and support invoicing and forecasting.
Liaise with accountants/bookkeepers as required.
ESSENTIAL SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
These qualities are an essential requirement of the role:
Highly organised, systems-focused, and comfortable building structure from ambiguity.
Tech-savvy with confidence managing tools, licences, and digital workflows.
Excellent attention to detail and naturally process-driven.
Pragmatic problem-solver who stays calm under pressure.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Financially literate with experience in budgeting.
DESIRABLE SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
These qualities would be useful for the role; but we do not expect candidates to offer all of them:
An interest in working with nature.
Experience working in a creative, sustainability, or consultancy SME.
Experience using Jira, Confluence, Google Workspace, Slack, or similar platforms and project management tools.
Knowledge of GDPR, H&S, and basic compliance requirements.
Understanding of tender writing or proposal coordination.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Calm, steady, and dependable.
Enjoys creating order, improving systems, and solving practical problems.
Approaches communication with clarity and kindness.
Thrives in a small business where everyone rolls up their sleeves.
Proactive, curious, and motivated to make the organisation run well
CONDITIONS OF SERVICE
SALARY: 50,000 - 65,000
HOURS OF WORK: The basic working week is 37 hours. Flexible working will be
considered.
ANNUAL LEAVE: Annual leave entitlement is 25 days plus 8 public holidays.
APPLICATION PROCESS
To apply for the position, please complete the Application Form on Ashfield HR's vacancy page as they are running the recruitment for us. Upload a copy of your CV and cover letter in one document. Applications without a fully completed application form will not be considered. Enquiries should be addressed to office@ashfieldhr.co.uk
Closing date: Friday 9th January 2026
Interview date: Friday 30th January 2026
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: 50,000.00-65,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Company pension
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Manchester M1 2JW
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