Head of Operations

We're Hiring:
Head of Contract Operations

UK-based | Travel to customer sites across EMEA West may be required

Reporting to the Operations Director, you will lead the regional Contracts function, with responsibility for the governance, performance, and commercial oversight of all live contracts across EMEA West. You will lead a team of Contracts Managers, ensuring robust commercial governance, effective cost control, disciplined change management, and strong customer engagement. Operating at the interface of Operations, Commercial, Finance, and Maintenance, this role plays a key part in driving operational delivery and commercial performance across the region.

• Lead and develop the regional Contracts team across EMEA West
• Drive contract financial performance in line with budget and "as sold" expectations
• Maximise achievement of contractual incentives
• Ensure robust overtime governance and commercial discipline
• Own and govern the end-to-end contract change management process
• Lead customer governance activities, including monthly, quarterly, and strategic reviews
• Ensure effective alignment between operational delivery, aircraft utilisation, and maintenance planning
• Act as the senior escalation point for contractual risk, governance, and compliance matters
• Foster strong cross-functional collaboration across Operations, Commercial, Finance, and Maintenance

• Significant operational, commercial, or contract management experience within a complex operational environment
• Proven experience leading commercial or contract management teams
• Strong financial, analytical, and commercial acumen
• Experience managing performance-based customer contracts and governance frameworks
• Ability to influence and challenge effectively across matrix organisations
• Strong stakeholder management and customer engagement skills
• Experience with in aviation or other safety-critical operational environments would be beneficial.

• Strong commercial judgement with a strategic and portfolio-focused mindset
• Credible and confident, with the ability to challenge constructively
• Accountable, resilient, and delivery-focused
• Collaborative leadership style with strong relationship-building capability

• Contract margin versus budget
• Percentage of contractual incentives achieved
• Zero unauthorised contract changes
• Effective and timely customer governance delivery
• On-time departure performance
• Aircraft delivered to maintenance on time and within allocated hours

This is a high-impact leadership opportunity within a complex operational environment, offering significant visibility and influence across both customer relationships and regional operational performance. If this opportunity aligns with your experience and aspirations, we would be pleased to hear from you.

Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK and meet any clearance requirements relevant to the role. The successful applicant may be required to complete pre-employment checks, including criminal history and employment verification. Information collected will be handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy.