Operations Manager (South Hams Waste)Council

Location: Ivybridge and Torr Quarry, Kingsbridge 

Lead a Service That Matters

Every day, our teams deliver essential waste, recycling and environmental services to thousands of residents and businesses across one of the UK's most beautiful districts. Behind every collection is a dedicated operational workforce, modern fleet and leadership team committed to delivering safe, reliable and customer-focused services.

We're looking for an exceptional Operations Manager to lead frontline waste and recycling operations at our Ivybridge and Torr Quarry depots.

This is more than a traditional management role. It is an opportunity to lead people, improve performance, drive operational excellence and make a visible difference to local communities and the environment. You'll have responsibility for operational supervisors and frontline crews, ensuring services are delivered safely, efficiently and consistently while helping shape the future of our Waste and Recycling Service.

What You'll Be Doing

As an Operations Manager, you'll provide visible leadership across the depot and wider service, ensuring operations run smoothly day-to-day while identifying opportunities for long-term improvement.

Please see the attached role profile for a list of duties and responsibilities.

We're looking for a confident operational leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys leading teams through challenge and change. The successful candidate will have:

• Experience managing frontline operational teams.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate, develop and hold teams accountable.
• Knowledge of waste management, logistics, transport, fleet, street scene or similar operational services.
• A sound understanding of health and safety management and operational compliance.
• Experience of managing employee relations issues and delivering organisational change.
• Excellent communication, planning and problem-solving abilities.
• A full UK driving licence.

This is an opportunity to:

• Lead a service that has a direct impact on residents every day.
• Work within a supportive and forward-thinking management team.
• Influence service improvements and operational innovation.
• Develop your career within a progressive local authority.
• Play a key role in environmental sustainability and community outcomes.

If you're an experienced operational leader who can develop people, improve performance and deliver excellent frontline services, we'd love to hear from you.

We know great people have choices. That's why we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your wellbeing, career development and work-life balance.  For more information please click on Our Offer

This is a role for someone who wants more than just managing operations. It's an opportunity to influence strategy, lead change, develop people and help shape the future of waste and recycling services across South Hams.

Join us and be part of a service that keeps communities clean, protects the environment and delivers real value for local residents.

For an informal discussion please contact Simon Bruford, Head of Waste Services on [email protected] or 01803 861533

Closing date:  Sunday 29 November 2026

Interviews are expected to be held on: Monday 7 December 2026

Position type: Full Time