Site Operations Manager

Cognitive Construction is an ambitious and growing construction company delivering high-quality residential extensions, renovations, bespoke builds and new-build projects across Milton Keynes and the surrounding areas.

We are building a reputation for exceptional workmanship, professional project management and a high level of client service. As we continue to grow, we are looking for an experienced Site Operations Manager who shares our commitment to excellence and wants to play an important role in delivering some of the area’s finest residential and commercial projects.

As Site Operations Manager, you will be responsible for the operational management of multiple live construction projects, ensuring each project is delivered safely, efficiently, on programme, to budget and to the high standards expected by Cognitive Construction and our clients.

This is a senior, hands‑on construction management role for an experienced professional who is equally confident managing sites, managing people and carrying out practical construction work.

You will oversee the day-to-day operational performance of multiple sites, ensuring that Site Managers, subcontractors, trades and site operatives are properly coordinated, supported and held accountable for delivering the required standard of work.

You will work closely with the Project Manager, who has responsibility for project delivery and reports to the Managing Director. You will provide the Project Manager with clear, accurate and proactive information on programme, progress, resources, quality, health and safety, costs, risks and any issues requiring escalation.

A key part of the role will be leading by example. You will be expected to have the practical construction knowledge and experience to step in, solve problems and provide live coaching and guidance on site to other team members and trades when required.

You will also take responsibility for ensuring that every project reaches a proper and professional handover. You should never be prepared to hand a project back to a client simply because the programme says it is finished. The project must be complete, clean, safe, defect‑free as far as reasonably possible and finished to a standard that you are genuinely proud to put the Cognitive Construction name to.

Take overall operational responsibility for the successful running and coordination of multiple live construction sites.

Plan, coordinate and oversee site activities across projects, ensuring resources, labour, trades, materials and plant are properly managed.

Regularly visit and monitor each project to assess progress, quality, site standards, health and safety and overall performance.

Maintain clear 2-3 week look‑ahead planning across each project and ensure upcoming works are properly coordinated.

Identify operational issues, resource requirements and potential delays early and take action before they impact the programme.

Ensure all sites are organised, productive, clean, safe and professionally presented.

Ensure works are carried out in accordance with approved drawings, specifications, programme and agreed scope.

Take ownership of ensuring projects remain on programme and within agreed budgets.

Monitor progress against the agreed project schedules and ensure key milestones and completion dates are achieved.

Identify programme risks early and implement practical solutions to prevent delays.

Ensure labour, subcontractors, materials and plant are planned sufficiently in advance to avoid unnecessary downtime.

Work closely with the Project Manager to understand project budgets, programme requirements and commercial priorities.

Identify and communicate any issues that could impact project cost or…