Operations Manager IREF

Johnson Controls; Birmingham; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading HVAC-R firm is seeking a strategically minded Operations Manager to lead their Industrial Refrigeration portfolio in the UK. This senior role is pivotal for driving financial performance and operational excellence. The ideal candidate should have proven experience in Industrial Refrigeration operations, strong financial management skills, and excellent leadership abilities. Join a global team working towards smart, sustainable buildings.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in Industrial Refrigeration operations, ideally in a senior or strategic role.
• Strong background in IREF installation projects and project management.
• Demonstrated success in financial management and commercial strategy.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the full IREF portfolio, ensuring delivery aligns with targets.
• Lead operations, identify risks and opportunities through analysis.
• Produce board-ready performance packs with variance analysis.

Skills

Industrial Refrigeration operations

Financial management

Stakeholder engagement

Leadership

Project management

Education

Degree in Engineering, Business, Finance, or related field

Project Management certification

Job description

Overview

Operations Manager – Industrial Refrigeration (IREF)
Location: UK (Flexible)

Build your best future with Johnson Controls.
We are looking for a strategically minded Operations Manager to lead our Industrial Refrigeration (IREF) portfolio within the UK HVAC-R division. This senior leadership role is pivotal in driving financial performance, operational excellence, and commercial growth.

What you will do

As Operations Manager, you will oversee the full IREF portfolio, ensuring delivery aligns with financial targets, contract obligations, and customer expectations. You’ll act as a key business partner to senior leadership and Sales, using data-driven insights to shape strategy, protect margins, and expand our UK market presence.

How you will do it

• Lead strategic operations across the IREF portfolio, identifying risks and opportunities through robust analysis.
• Own full P&L accountability, ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting.
• Produce board-ready performance packs with variance analysis and forecasts.
• Collaborate with Sales to support bids, tenders, and pricing strategies.
• Drive market expansion and operational input into growth initiatives.
• Ensure contracts support profitability and compliance.
• Champion risk governance and a proactive health & safety culture.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team of Project Managers and Engineers.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

What we look for

• Proven experience in Industrial Refrigeration operations, ideally in a senior or strategic role.
• Strong background in IREF installation projects and project management.
• Demonstrated success in financial management and commercial strategy.
• Deep understanding of contract structures, compliance, and UK H&S regulations.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and leadership skills.
• Degree in Engineering, Business, Finance, or related field preferred.
• Project Management certification desirable.

Why Johnson Controls?

At Johnson Controls, we’re shaping the future of smart, sustainable buildings. Join us and be part of a global team that’s making a real impact.