Astute People

Director of Operations

Are you a strategic leader with a passion for operational excellence? Are you ready to make a significant impact in a dynamic and growing organisation? Due to our business growth, we are seeking a talented and experienced Director of Operations to join our Senior Leadership team at Turnbull. As the Director of Operations, you will play a pivotal role in leading and controlling our operational services, ensuring the delivery of contractual requirements while identifying and developing new opportunities.

 

Location: Nailsea and Hinkley Point C (with some travel)

Salary: £90,000 - £100,000 plus Car Allowance

Job Type: Permanent

Hours: Monday to Friday

 

My Responsibilities…

 

As Director of Operations, you will play a key role in spearheading operational services at Turnbull. You will have the responsibility to lead and control operational services for Turnbull, identifying and developing opportunities alongside the running of day-to-day delivery of contractual requirements. Our operational services consist of ‘operate and maintain’ which include but are not limited to operating utilities (water, waste, comms and power) along with developing tailored programmes of preventative and reactive maintenance to address evolving needs.

 

You will report to the Managing Director, working collaboratively with the Director of Projects and Commercial director, leading a team of Operations Managers. The main part of your job will be:

• Strategically developing and financially leading £20–£25 million per annum and its growing turnover.
• Crafting and implementing a robust strategic business plan for our operate and maintain business, aligning it with growth and profit targets.
• Cultivating partnerships and fostering strong commercial relationships, whilst effectively managing key stakeholders to enhance our brand and drive future growth.
• Overseeing all commercial activities with support from the Commercial Director, with the aim of optimising the long-term financial strategy.
• Ensure financial performance targets are met, review planning and systems, and implement value-added strategies.
• Leading and managing the operational teams to achieve key performance indicators (KPIs) and deliver exceptional results.
• Identifying and implementing opportunities to increase efficiency and streamline processes across the organisation.
• Maintain compliance with environmental permits, keeping serious pollution incidents at zero within budgetary controls and set KPIs whilst fostering a safe and welcoming environment for our teams to thrive and develop.
• Acting as a trusted deputy for the Managing Director, assuming day-to-day responsibilities and making sound decisions in their absence.

 

What are the requirements?

 

To thrive in this role, you’ll need:

• Proven senior leadership experience in a similar operational role.
• A degree or equivalent and relevant professional qualifications.
• Extensive experience in managing and delivering multiple operational projects.
• Strong background in the utilities industry, preferably with high-profile national projects.
• Proven track record in managing multi-disciplinary teams.
• Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to make effective decisions and manage time efficiently.
• Strong performance and motivational skills with the ability to inspire and lead teams.
• Experience in the commercial sector.

 

Benefits for you

 

We offer the following financial and non-financial benefits to support your financial, health and wellbeing:

• Car allowance
• Pension scheme offering up to 20% combined contribution
• Performance related bonus
• Private healthcare cover for you and your partner
• 25 days annual leave increasing to 28 over five years
• Opportunity to buy up to two weeks additional holiday
• Life assurance of up to four times your salary
• A range of family friendly policies including enhanced maternity and paternity leave

 

Turnbull Infrastructure and Utilities Ltd – What we’re all about

 

We are leaders in lifecycle construction and operations for the utilities and infrastructure sectors.

 

From design and build to facility management and maintenance, we provide a single, sustainable, end-to-end solution for engineering projects, saving money, reducing waste and adding long-term value to local communities and the wider economy.

 

Turnbull is an award-winning progressive business, who have won the RoSPA health and safety awards for our work at Hinkley Point C for the last five years.

 

The services we provide through to our clients include but are not limited too.

 

• Project Management
• Design and Build Services
• Consent Management and Delivery
• Contract Management
• Delivery of Civil, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering services

 

Expertise in:

 

• Low voltage (LV) and high voltage (HV) electrical power distribution systems
• Sewage systems and pumping stations
• Biological waste treatment plants
• Telecommunication networks (copper and fibre)
• Drinking water distribution networks and booster stations
• Surface and ground water drainage systems inclusive of borehole delivery and management
• Roadway and pedestrian walkway lighting networks
• Management of environmental discharge permit and scientific services
• Earth works and ground remediation services

Astute’s Nuclear team is partnering with a world class engineering company providing products and services to meet the needs of their customers for engineered solutions to high temperature/thermal engineering problems. They are recruiting a Senior Quantity Surveyor for its Hinkley Point C project on a full time, permanent basis.

 

The Senior Quantity Surveyor role is pivotal to the site operations and comes with a base salary of £83 – £90,000, overtime, accommodation allowances, travel expenses, and 28 days annual leave + bank holidays.

 

If you’re a Quantity Surveyor or Commercial Manager and are looking to work for an organisation that adaptably works around their employees needs, then submit your CV to apply today.

 

 

Responsibilities and duties

• Lead and manage the commercial function from procurement through to final account.
• Work closely with the Senior Project Manager on day-to-day contract administration.
• Oversee variation processes, claims, and dispute resolution—NEC contract experience essential.
• Provide cost forecasts, monitor budgets, and manage project cash flow.
• Administer and manage valuations, applications, invoicing, and subcontractor account reviews.
• Maintain the risk register and develop mitigation plans in collaboration with the wider team.
• Proactively manage relationships with clients, legal advisors, contractors, and internal teams.
• Report on commercial KPIs and provide regular updates to senior leadership and stakeholders.
• Ensure adherence to corporate governance and project-specific contractual obligations.
• Provide expert contractual advice to minimise liabilities and support project compliance

 

Professional qualifications

We are looking for someone with the following:

• Degree in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, Construction Management, or a related field.
• Professional chartership/membership preferred (e.g., RICS, CIOB).
• Experience in sectors such as infrastructure, energy, rail, or major civil engineering projects.
• In-depth knowledge of NEC3 contracts and construction law.
• Demonstrated ability to manage financial aspects, contract negotiations, and commercial risk.
• Experienced working in Tier 1 or Tier 2 contractors is highly desirable.

 

Personal skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong problem-solving ability and decision-making skills.
• Effective under pressure, able to work both independently and collaboratively.
• High attention to detail and excellent organisational skills.

 

Salary and benefits of the Senior Quantity Surveyor role

• Base salary ranging from £83,000 - £90,000 depending on experience
• Overtime opportunity
• Accommodation and travel allowances
• 28 days annual leave + bank holidays

Commercial & Contracts Officer

Portsmouth

£35,000 - £45,000 basic + benefits

 

Introduction…

Astute are proudly partnered with a well-established Marine Engineering business within the Defence sector. They are currently looking to recruit a Commercial & Contracts Officer to support projects that are ongoing. This will be a customer-facing role involving close working with the Business Development and Project Management teams as well as other stakeholders.

 

Roles & Responsibilities

As the Commercial & Contracts Officer, you will be responsible for:

• Ensuring that all agreements are negotiated, drafted and agreed in line with business requirements
• Understand MoD commercial practices (such as SSRO)
• Liaising with Purchasing, Project Management and Engineering teams to provide contract management expertise
• Supporting the Sales team with handover of contracts
• Ensuring the Delivery team are aware of obligations by providing commercial guidance
• Monthly reports to Heads of Commercial & Legal teams
• Acting as a main point of contact for both customers and colleagues on contractual matters

 

Skills & Qualifications

We are looking for someone with the following:

• 3 years’ experience working in a commercial role
• Confident speaking with customers and suppliers face to face
• A good understanding of legal terms and conditions of contracts
• Right to live and work in the UK
• Full driving license

 

Salary & Package

What’s on offer for this exciting role:

• £35,000 - £45,000 basic salary
• Monday – Friday, 08:30 – 17:30 hours
• 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
• Pension, profit share, life assurance, income protection, sick pay

 

How to Apply

If you are interested in this position, please send a CV and Cover Letter to [email protected] or ring 02393911227 and ask to speak to Hannah Rymill who can tell you more.

Astute’s Renewables team is partnered with established anaerobic digestion business who design, build, own and operate assets. They’re looking to recruit a Plant Manager to their new build site located just South of Selby.   The Plant Manager role comes with a very competitive salary, car allowance, bonus, healthcare and private medical.   If you’re an experienced Plant Manager looking to join an established and expanding business in the biogas sector, then submit your CV to apply today. Responsibilities and duties of the Biogas Plant Manage role Reporting to the Head of Operations you will:  

• Oversee all plant operations to ensure maximum uptime and efficiency.
• Monitor and optimise biological performance of the digestion process.
• Coordinate feedstock deliveries, storage, and blending to maintain consistent digester performance.
• Manage digestate storage, handling, and export in compliance with regulations and customer requirements.
• Ensure accurate record?keeping of plant outputs including biogas, electricity, biomethane, heat, and digestate
• Be part of an on-call rota along with weekend work when required
• Act as the primary site lead for the plant’s Environmental Permit, ensuring full compliance with EA requirements.
• Act as the primary site lead for the plant’s PAS110 Accreditation, ensuring full compliance with standards
• Lead, motivate, and develop the onsite operations team, including operators, technicians, and contractors
• Oversee the planned preventive maintenance (PPM) schedule in partnership with GMT Field Engineering Team and external contractors.

  Professional qualifications   We are looking for someone with the following:  

• Engineering, Environmental Science, or Process Operations qualification is desired but not essential
• WAMITAB/COTC qualification or willingness to obtain.
• IOSH/NEBOSH certification
• Full UK Driving Licence

  Personal skills   The Plant Manager role would suit someone who is:  

• Experience managing an anaerobic digestion plant or similar industrial/processing facility.
• Strong understanding of plant design and operation and ability to interpret drawings such as PFD and P&IDs
• Strong understanding of environmental permitting and regulatory compliance.
• Demonstrated leadership capability with experience managing teams.
• Knowledge of health & safety legislation (e.g., PUWER, LOLER, COSHH).
• Experience with SCADA systems, process monitoring, and operational reporting.
• Strong problem?solving skills and the ability to work calmly during breakdowns or emergencies

  Salary and benefits of the Plant Manager role  

• Comprehensive financial package
• Car allowance
• Performance related bonus
• Private Health and medical
• Additional benefits discussed at interview

#LI-AR1 INDREN  

Astute’s Contract team is partnering with a Civil Construction company to recruit an Assistant Site Manager on a 6 month contract for its Nottinghamshire site.  The Assistant Site Manager role comes with a day rate of £350-£450 per day (IR35 determination has not been completed yet – TBC) Start Date: Monday 24th August Working Hours: 7:30-4pm Monday – Friday (plenty of opportunity for weekend work if desired) If you complete a successful 6-month contract, these contracts can become permanent positions. Key Skills required for these roles:

• Assisting with the coordination of site activities.
• Carrying out quality inspections and ITP hold point checks.
• Undertaking health and safety spot inspections.
• Assisting with site records and documentation.
• Liaising with site teams and subcontractors.
• Ensuring works are carried out safely and in accordance with project procedures.
• Maintaining accurate records using the SharePoint system.

Minimum qualifications required:  

• NVQ Level 5 in Construction Site Management.
• SMSTS.
• First Aid at Work
• Temporary Works
• Strong civil engineering and highways experience

Interviews are Monday & Tuesday (17th & 18th August).

Solar PV Field Service Engineer Manchester/Sheffield/Leeds £35k basic + Benefits     Introduction Astute are supporting a client who are a leader in the design, supply and installation of bespoke renewable technologies. With a structured growth plan in place a new and exciting opportunity has arisen for a Solar PV Field Service Engineer.                     Roles & Responsibilities Reporting to the O&M Technical Manager,  you will be responsible for:  

• Repairs and minor works as and when required for installation callouts, servicing, or planned works.
• Full site and job management covering the ordering of materials, and site reports, to ensure fast resolution to our client’s servicing and remedial requirements.
• To liaise with the project manager and assist with keeping the standards of the QMS, Operations and Maintenance manuals and professional working procedures.
• Solar PV commissioning and electrical inspection and testing
• Carrying out full servicing works of Solar PV Installations across a broad range of clients and contracts from within the commercial, industrial, and domestic sectors.

      Skills & Qualifications We are looking for someone with the following:  

• Level three electrical certification
• C&G 18th Edition
• ECS Qualification (Gold Card)
• Solar experience

      Salary & Package What’s on offer for this exciting role:  

• £35k Basic
• Company Van
• Company Credit Card
• Pension/BUPA Healthcare/Holiday

    How to apply? To apply for this opportunity simply send a copy of your up-to-date CV and covering letter to [email protected] or call  023 93 911 007 to speak to Simon Cheung who can tell you more.     INDREN

About Us: Roxtec was founded in Sweden in 1990 and is the world leader in the field of cable and pipe seals.  This market position has been achieved by pursuing a consistent, customer-oriented strategy.  Our pioneering modular-based seals with Multidiameter™ are the base for our rapid and sustainable growth, but the positive trend is first of all built on committed people, strong values, and a clear customer focus.    External Technical Sales Manager We are currently seeking a technical sales professional to further develop the land-based markets for Roxtec in the northwest of England. The role will be varied in focus, covering both engineering specifications with leading industry design companies, but also extending to both owners and contractors involved in operating and constructing projects in our chosen markets and applications. Job Description

• Identify and target all land-based market opportunities (rail, advance facilities, pharma, telecoms, power generation, onshore chemical and oil and gas, and construction) and work closely with them to develop our brand further and generate specifications that will help further our sales in our chosen applications.
• Identify, quantify and target projects. With a clear focus on key decision makers (owners /operators, engineers, contractors or resellers) Typically this work will be varied in both focus and value. The main aim is to develop our brand further and generate specifications that will help further our sales in our chosen applications.
• Develop business, often from a cold start point through to standard specification / client approved lists
• Search for new clients who would benefit from the use our solutions and support in order to maximise market potential
• Maintain our existing client base of owners, operators, designers and installers.
• Attend industry events and forums in order to network for new opportunities

• Focus is not limited to traditional structures and plant, we also target equipment and modular based construction
• Present Roxtec solutions to specifying engineers (electrical, control, instrumentation, mechanical, structural) via technical presentations, site visits, installation training, promotion with resellers and other means as appropriate
• Drive sustainable sales growth through gaining engineering specifications for Roxtec solutions and delivering world-class support throughout the project lifecycle
• Create and execute targeted sales plan
• Identify and communicate resources needed to meet sales objectives
• Effectively promote and apply Roxtec Core Values, within Roxtec and within industry
• Plan and manage all customer contacts and meetings within Roxtec CRM system
• Provide routine, accurate and meaningful market information, forecasting and product planning to management
• Provide pre-sales technical advice and solution guidance. This will extend to providing design input for our range of bespoke products where required.

Preferred Job Requirements:

• University degree and/or equivalent. Consideration would be given to those without relevant degree and/or equivalent if sufficient industry specific experience working in a similar role could be demonstrated.
• Professional sales experience with preference to those that have a successful record presenting complex and/or technical solutions to decision makers, specifying engineers.
• Existing working relationships within owner / operators, engineering, contracting and design firms
• Knowledge in our target sector, with experience of civil construction, electrical, controls, automation and/or mechanical systems for our chosen markets.
• Strong understanding of industrial business practices and effective sales techniques – must be able to develop, manage and perform to a sales and business plan with a consultancy approach.
• Experience of business development with the ability to demonstrate structured planning and new prospect engagement
• Ability to use industry news / project databases / relationships to develop technical sales opportunities
• Effective networking skills
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills (written and oral)
• Proven ability and confidence to prepare and present solutions and strategies to groups of co-workers, clients or prospects.
• Proven ability to manage long-term and complex sales projects to success
• Role involves working away from home for periods during the working week to serve the UK market
• Ability to travel internationally on occasion

Beneficial Skills / Knowledge

• Experience of providing technical support / surveying of applications
• Successful track record of selling premium solutions against low cost competitor
• Knowledge and experience within the power, process, industry and infrastructure markets preferred.

Astute’s Power team are looking to recruit Solar Installers across various projects in and around the Midlands area on a 6-month minimum contract.             Key skills

• Oversee safe and efficient installation of solar systems on residential and commercial properties.
• Plan and organise installation works.
• Read and interpret technical drawings.
• Ensure all solar panels, mount structures and electrical components are installed and commissioning correctly.
• Perform quality checks, resolving on- site issues and maintain compliance with safety standards and regulations.
• Must have Level 3 NVQ in Electrical Installation or equivalent
• Must hold a current 18th edition
• City & Guilds 2922 Solar PV or Level 3 Award in installation of small scale solar photovoltaic systems (desirable)
• Must hold strong knowledge of solar power and solar systems incudling design, installation and system performance.
• Must have practical experience installing solar PV on various roof types.
• Previous work as senior or lead installer in solar or heat pump installations is highly beneficial.  

Location, remuneration and timeframe of the Solar Installer role  

• Midlands
• August 2026
• 6 months minimum
• £300 per day

Astute’s Nuclear team is exclusively partnered with a specialist lifting and handling equipment business, acting as the lifting principal contractor on Hinkley Point C. We are currently recruiting a Slinger/Signaller to support safe lifting operations for gantry crane installation and maintenance. You will work in a highly regulated and safety-critical environment, ensuring that all lifting activities comply with the lift plan, BS 7121 standards, and site safety rules. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in slinging, signalling, and controlling heavy lifts, preferably within nuclear or major infrastructure projects. The role offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and the chance to play a key role in one of the UK’s flagship infrastructure developments.                     Responsibilities and duties: Reporting to the Black Hat Supervisor, you will:

• Select, inspect, and prepare lifting accessories in accordance with certification and the lift plan.
• Safely sling and signal loads, including large crane components and structural assemblies.
• Communicate clearly with crane operators via radio and hand signals.
• Maintain exclusion zones and ensure lifting operations are carried out safely.
• Follow RAMS, lifting plans, and site permit systems.
• Record lifting activities and maintain accurate documentation.

    Professional qualifications: We are looking for someone with the following:

• CPCS (A40)
• Experience slinging/signalling for the construction/assembly of gantry cranes, overhead cranes or large mechanical assemblies.
• CCNSG Safety Passport is ideal
• Competence in interpreting lifting plans, load charts and technical drawings

    Personal skills The Slinger role would suit someone who has:

• Strong situational awareness and communication skills.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure in busy work environments.
• A safety-first mindset and willingness to challenge unsafe practices.
• Ability to obtain BPSS security clearance.

    Salary and benefits of the Slinger role  

• Competitive salary based on ECSA rates, dependent on experience.
• Generous accommodation and travel allowances.
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
• Opportunity to work on prestigious nuclear projects with a leading contractor.

INDNUC