Senior PFI Operations Manager

Senior Operations Manager - Hard Services (PFI Healthcare Contract)

Location: London

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: £75,000 DOE

Reporting To: Contracts Manager/Contract Director

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced Senior Operations Manager to lead the hard FM services for a Private Finance Initiative (PFI) healthcare contract. This role is responsible for ensuring the efficient delivery of mechanical, electrical, and building fabric maintenance services within a critical healthcare environment. The successful candidate will be an expert in PFI contract management, compliance, and operational leadership, ensuring that contractual KPIs and SLAs are consistently met.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Management & Service Delivery

• Oversee the day-to-day delivery of hard FM services, ensuring full compliance with PFI contract requirements.
• Manage planned preventative maintenance (PPM) and reactive maintenance programs for MEP, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and building fabric systems.
• Ensure that all service delivery aligns with statutory, regulatory, and NHS-specific standards.
• Implement and monitor performance improvement strategies to drive operational excellence.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure strict adherence to health & safety regulations (e.g., HTMs, SFG20, ISO, and HSE requirements).
• Conduct risk assessments, audits, and compliance reviews to mitigate operational risks.
• Oversee life cycle planning and asset management, ensuring the long-term sustainability of infrastructure.
• Liaise with external auditors and stakeholders to demonstrate compliance with PFI contract obligations.

Financial & Commercial Management

• Manage the operational budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness while maintaining service quality.
• Monitor and control financial performance, P&L, and contract variations to maximize revenue and minimize financial risks.
• Oversee life-cycle investment planning, ensuring infrastructure remains compliant and fit for purpose.
• Ensure invoice validation, change control management, and contract escalations are handled effectively.

Stakeholder & Client Relationship Management

• Act as the primary point of contact for the client, NHS Trust, and PFI partners, ensuring strong relationships are maintained.
• Proactively manage client expectations, addressing issues promptly and ensuring high satisfaction levels.
• Attend regular PFI project meetings, providing performance updates and strategic recommendations.
• Develop and maintain relationships with key subcontractors and supply chain partners.

People & Team Leadership

• Lead and develop a team of technical managers, engineers, and subcontractors, ensuring high performance and engagement.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and professional development.
• Conduct performance reviews, training programs, and workforce planning to ensure operational resilience.

Key Requirements:

Education & Qualifications:

• Degree or HND/HNC in Engineering, Facilities Management, or a related field.
• Chartered Engineer (CEng) or relevant professional accreditation (e.g., CIBSE, IWFM, NEBOSH) is preferred.
• IOSH / NEBOSH certification (or equivalent Health & Safety qualification).

Experience:

• Minimum 8-10 years' experience in hard FM service delivery, with at least 5 years in a senior management role.
• Extensive experience managing PFI contracts within a healthcare environment.
• Strong knowledge of HTM (Health Technical Memoranda) compliance, statutory maintenance, and NHS Estates guidelines.
• Proven track record of budget management, financial planning, and contract performance.

Skills & Competencies:

• In-depth understanding of PFI contract structures, SLAs, and KPIs.
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Commercial awareness with the ability to identify risks, opportunities, and cost-saving initiatives.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with a strategic and analytical mindset.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary & performance-based bonus
• Private healthcare & pension scheme
• Career progression opportunities
• Company car or travel allowance where applicable

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