Strategic Operations & Quality Leader

About Us

Calex specialise in the design, development, and delivery of innovative learning programmes, predominantly within the automotive retail industry, including management, technical, aftersales and apprentice training. More recently we have begun working with forward-thinking companies within the logistics, food & beverage, and pensions sectors to enhance their training proposition via the implementation of Virtual Learning Environments, Live Broadcasting and Social Learning Platforms.

Our Corporate Vision is to 'Deliver inspirational, technology rich, fully integrated and personalised learning programmes that deliver beyond expectation' and we work in close partnership with our clients to identify and implement innovative and effective learning solutions.

To learn more about Calex, please visit our website at

Following a sustained period of organic growth, with further exciting opportunities on the horizon, we are looking to complement our successful Team with a Central Operations & Quality Manager to lead the efficient and effective delivery of our organisation's core operations.

As a key member of the Senior Management team, you will be responsible for ensuring the alignment of operational processes and systems with organisational objectives, driving both performance and sustainable growth.

This role requires a strong blend of commercial acumen, people leadership, and operational expertise. You will oversee critical business functions such as Finance, Vehicle Fleet, Health & Safety, Facilities, IT and Compliance, and act as an advisor to the Leadership team and other key stakeholders to ensure operational excellence across the board.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership

• Continuous improvement and execution of the operational strategy to support the organisation's long-term goals.
• Lead and manage cross-functional operational teams (e.g., Finance, IT, Facilities, Compliance, Procurement).
• Ensure business continuity, resilience planning, and risk management frameworks are in place and effective.
• Maintain oversight of day-to-day operations, ensuring systems, processes, and workflows are optimised for performance, efficiency, and quality.
• Champion operational innovation across the business.

Strategic Planning & Execution

• Contribute to organisational strategy and planning as a member of the Senior Management team.
• Translate strategic objectives into actionable operational plans with clear KPIs, timelines, and ownership.
• Collaborate across all departments to align operations with company culture, values, and growth plans.

Operational Oversight & Resource Management

• Working collaboratively with the Finance Manager, you will oversee operational budgeting, financial processes, planning, and cost control across our 'central services'.
• Ensure optimal use of organisational resources, balancing quality delivery with fiscal responsibility.
• Manage sub-contracted service provisions and lead negotiations to support efficient delivery and value for money.

Technology & Infrastructure

• Work closely with IT partners to ensure the organisation's technology infrastructure is secure, scalable, compliant, and aligned with business needs.
• Drive digital transformation initiatives to streamline operations and improve user experience.

Team Leadership & Organisational Culture

• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and innovation.
• Embody and promote our Company's Core Values & Behaviours.

Compliance & Governance

• Ensure adherence to regulatory requirements, policies, and ethical standards across operational functions.
• Maintain robust internal controls and risk mitigation procedures.
• Serve as a key contact for auditors, regulatory bodies, and governance stakeholders as required.

About You:

• Proven senior leadership experience in an Operations, General Management role, ideally in a complex, multi-functional organisation.
• Strong understanding of operational disciplines including finance, compliance, IT, fleet, procurement, and facilities.
• Track record of designing and delivering operational strategies that drive efficiency and enable organisational success.
• Hands-on approach with excellent leadership and people management skills, with a focus on team development and performance.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing complex budgets and business plans.
• Effective communicator and collaborator, capable of engaging stakeholders at all levels.
• Experienced in using data and metrics to drive performance and decision-making.
• Familiarity with change management, digital transformation, and process improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma, Agile) is highly desirable.
• Strong ethical leadership with a values-driven, people-first approach.
• Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, evolving environment.

Our Calex Core Values:
We are looking for someone who aligns with our company core values of being:

• Caring & Supportive
• Open & Honest
• Welcoming & Inclusive
• Collaborative & Inspiring
• Enjoyable & Rewarding
• Flexible & Adaptable
• Accountable & Reliable
• Healthy & Sustainable

To apply, please provide a full and up to date copy of your CV together with a covering letter detailing why you believe we would love to have you on the team.

Stage 1 Virtual interviews shall take place via Teams, week commencing 13th April.

Successful candidates shall be invited to attend an interview at our Abingdon office, week commencing 27th April.

Salary & Benefits: Up to £65,000 dependant on experience. 25 Days Paid Annual Leave. Calex Employee Benefits Package (inc. High Street Discounts, Online GP, Welfare Scheme).

Contract: Permanent / Full Time

Working Hours: Monday to Friday / 40 hours per week

Place of Work: This role will be based at our Head Office in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, with occasional travel to other Calex and Partner business premises throughout the UK.

Pre-employment Checks: Calex will undertake the relevant/standard employment checks with all successful candidates. This includes taking two references, as well as checking candidate ID, driving licence and right to work in the UK. Some roles may also be subject to further pre-employment checks (confirmation will be provided through the recruitment process). The nature of this role may necessitate that we undertake a DBS check.

Employment: The successful candidate will be employed by Calex UK ( ).