Operations Manager

Operations Manager
Project/Engineering · UK
We are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to play a key role in the development of a 20MW hydrogen facility in the UK.
This role provides a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of the energy transition in the fast-growing green hydrogen space. You will be working closely with a dynamic international team of technical and commercial personnel. You will play a key role in the project by proactively leading and shaping its operational development, working closely with in-house project and engineering teams, as well as with stakeholders and partners. During the pre-development phase, the Operations Manager will report to the Head of Projects.
 
Responsibilities
In this role, your key responsibilities include:

• Close collaboration with the engineering team during the engineering phase to ensure the operability of the plant
• Preparation of operational readiness plans, including training and recruitment
• Maintaining a clear overview of the plant and its functionalities
• Development of operating procedures and ensuring alignment with UK Hazardous Substance Consent and MAPD regulations
• Establishing initial operation and maintenance schedules
• Identifying and implementing optimization opportunities for plant operation
• Developing effective stakeholder engagement plans to support the operational phase of the project

 
Desired Expertise and Skills
The ideal candidate will have the following skills and experience:

• B.Sc./M.Sc. in Engineering or a related technical discipline
• Approximately 10 years of experience in operational management (depending on role level)
• Previous experience in, or understanding of, the process and/or hydrogen industry
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Highly motivated, with a structured, results-driven approach and the ability to work independently
• Ability to operate facilities in compliance with all safety and environmental regulations and permits
• Proactive mindset with the ability to prioritise critical activities while managing a broad workload
• Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate with colleagues, customers, and stakeholders across different countries and cultures
• Positive, can-do attitude with a willingness to learn
• Excellent written and spoken English communication skills

 
Department: Project/Engineering
Location: UK
 
About the Company
The company is a green hydrogen developer and owner-operator focused on delivering large-scale, bankable projects across Europe. Backed by strong industrial expertise and financial capability, it takes projects from development through to construction and operations.
Its portfolio spans the full hydrogen value chain, including renewable power sourcing, hydrogen production, distribution, and industrial offtake. Key projects include large-scale developments converting renewable energy into green hydrogen for industrial use, as well as UK-based projects supporting industrial decarbonisation and progressing through advanced stages of investment and construction.
The organisation focuses on developing commercially robust projects designed for long-term delivery, supported by strong partnerships, structured revenue frameworks, and alignment with evolving policy landscapes. This enables efficient progression from concept to execution.
The approach is pragmatic and delivery-focused, grounded in technical excellence, commercial discipline, and collaborative engagement.
Hydrogen is expected to play a critical role in industrial decarbonisation and energy security. The company’s objective is to deliver scalable, investable solutions—responsibly, reliably, and at pace.


People are our business worldwide
 
Orion Group was founded in 1987 and is now one of the largest, independent, international recruitment companies. We have a network of 200 employees working from 24 offices, delivering a range of services – Talent Acquisition, Recruitment Outsourcing Services, Retained Search, Global Workforce Solutions, Completions & Commissioning and Materials Management – across 68 countries. As a global leader in workforce solutions, we recruit personnel across the Engineering & Technical, Office & Commercial, Scientific and Skilled Trades disciplines, for sectors including Oil & Gas, Life Science, Power & Utilities, Constructions & Infrastructure, Manufacturing and Renewables.