Operations Manager
Location: Oxfordshire
Contract Type: Permanent / Full Time
Closing Date: Feb 5th, 2026
Ref: 1626100
From commissioning to steady operation: you’ll be leading it. A well-funded UK process technology business is moving from build and commissioning into stable, optimised operation of its demonstration-scale plant. This next phase is critical, and it needs someone who enjoys being close to the plant, solving real operational problems and setting the foundations for what comes next.
The
Operations Manager will take day-to-day ownership of site operations, leading safe commissioning, optimisation and ongoing performance, while helping shape how operations develop as the business grows.
What you’ll be doing · Leading the safe, reliable operation of a pilot/demonstration plant
· Taking ownership of commissioning, optimisation and continuous improvement activities
· Embedding strong process safety and operational discipline on site
· Helping build operational capability as the team and facility develop
· Working closely with engineering, leadership and external partners
· Feeding operational insight into future scale-up and commercial projects
This is a hands-on role with real visibility, not a desk-based position.
About you You’re likely to come from refining, petrochemicals, fuels or another regulated process environment, and you’re comfortable being fully site-based and close to operations.
You could be:
· An existing Operations or Area Manager
· A Process Engineer with significant commissioning experience
· Or someone ready to step into their first Operations Manager role
What matters most is:
· A strong operational and safety-led mindset
· Confidence during commissioning and early-phase operations
· Sound judgement and leadership presence
· Comfort working in a fast-moving, evolving environment
Why this role stands out · Direct ownership of the transition from commissioning into steady operation
· Clear scope for the role to
grow organically as the business scales
· Exposure to future commercial projects and scale-up activity
· Competitive salary, annual bonus, strong pension and relocation support where required
Practical details · Location: Oxford area (full-time on-site)
· Experience: typically 5–15 years (flexible for the right person)
· Salary: competitive and dependent on experience
If you enjoy being involved at the point where a plant moves from “built” to “working well”, I’d be keen to have a confidential conversation.
For full details, please contact
Steve Guest at Wolviston Management Services.
