Operations Manager

FDS Group is a leading supplier of fire safety products and services including smoke ventilation and fire detection systems. Located at our office in Greenhithe, near Dartford in Kent, we work predominantly in London and the Southeast. This role is a full-time position based at the company office with immediate start. Candidates wishing to apply should be UK based within a reasonable commute and available for start within usual notice periods.

We are seeking a highly organized and proactive individual to join our team as a Financial Controller and Client Liaison. This role will be responsible for overseeing financial control activities, managing client relations, and ensuring seamless communication between various departments. The ideal candidate will have strong financial acumen, excellent client-facing skills, and the ability to provide strategic support to the directors.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Financial Control:

o Review and manage outstanding debts, ensuring timely collection and reconciliation.

o Coordinate with engineers to align current work schedules with financial targets and appointment balances.

o Oversee financial aspects of projects to maintain profitability and cost-effectiveness.

2. Client Relations:

o Act as the primary point of contact for clients, leading the resolution of client issues and providing innovative solutions.

o Build and maintain strong client relationships, ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction.

3. Appointment Review:

o Manage and review appointment schedules to optimise operational efficiency and ensure client needs are met.

4. Directors Reporting:

o Prepare and deliver comprehensive reports to directors, detailing financial performance, client issues, and operational updates.

o Provide strategic insights and recommendations to support decision-making at an executive level.

5. Consultant Work-in-Hand (WIH) Reporting and Reviewing:

o Track and report on consultant work-in-hand, ensuring accurate and timely updates.

o Review consultant performance metrics and provide feedback to optimize productivity and client satisfaction.

6. Quotes Management:

o Follow up on outstanding quotes, ensuring timely responses and closing of potential deals.

o Analyse lost quotes, identify trends, and implement strategies to improve conversion rates.

Requirements

Qualifications:

· Bachelor’s degree in finance, business administration, or a related field.

· Proven experience in financial control, client relations, and operational management.

· Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret financial data and provide strategic insights.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and resolve conflicts effectively.

· Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple tasks and priorities.

· Proficient in MS Office and financial management software.

Benefits

FDS Contracting offers a competitive salary with a range of company benefits including:

• Company bonus scheme
• Vitality healthcare scheme
• Income protection insurance
• Death in-service insurance