Framework Manager
About Sapphire Utility Solutions
Sapphire Utility Solutions (SUS) is a leading provider of utility infrastructure, repair, and maintenance services across the UK water sector. Working in partnership with some of the country's largest water companies, we deliver innovative, efficient, and safe solutions that help maintain and improve critical infrastructure for millions of customers.
As part of our continued growth and commitment to excellence, we are seeking an experienced Framework Manager to lead and develop our Welsh Water operations, ensuring exceptional service delivery, strong client relationships, and sustainable business growth.
The Role
This is a key leadership position within the business, responsible for overseeing the successful delivery of our Welsh Water framework. You'll lead operational teams across the region, drive performance, and ensure all activities are completed safely, efficiently, and in line with contractual requirements.
Working closely with internal stakeholders and the client, you'll play a pivotal role in shaping strategy, improving performance, identifying opportunities for growth, and maintaining Sapphire Utility Solutions' reputation for operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the delivery of all contractual and operational commitments across the Welsh Water framework.
- Provide strong leadership, direction, and support to regional operational and depot management teams.
- Foster a positive safety culture and ensure all works are delivered in accordance with company and client health, safety, environmental, and quality standards.
- Maintain accountability for regional operational performance and profitability.
- Ensure compliance with all contractual, statutory, and company requirements.
- Develop and maintain strong working relationships with Welsh Water and key stakeholders.
- Identify opportunities for service improvement, innovation, efficiency, and sustainable growth.
- Monitor and manage framework budgets, forecasts, and financial performance.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives across operational processes and delivery methods.
- Conduct regular site visits to ensure operational excellence, safety compliance, and customer satisfaction.
- Lead performance reviews, resource planning, and workforce development activities.
- Support business development opportunities and contribute to future contract growth.
About You
To be successful in this role, you will possess a strong operational leadership background with experience managing large-scale service delivery contracts.
Requirements
- Full UK Driving Licence.
- Proven experience in a senior operational, framework, or contract management role.
- Strong commercial and financial acumen with experience managing budgets and P&L responsibility.
- Experience managing client relationships within a contractual environment.
- Demonstrable leadership experience across multi-site operations.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
- Strong understanding of health, safety, environmental, and compliance requirements.
- Ability to drive performance, manage change, and deliver business objectives.
Desirable
- Experience within the utilities, water, wastewater, civil engineering, or infrastructure sectors.
- Knowledge of Welsh Water frameworks and regulatory requirements.
- Relevant management or operational qualifications.
What We Offer
At Sapphire Utility Solutions, our people are our greatest asset. We are committed to providing an environment where employees can develop, succeed, and make a meaningful contribution to the future of the business.
Benefits
- 24 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
- Company pension scheme.
- Life Assurance.
- Company vehicle or car allowance (if applicable).
- Ongoing professional development and training.
- Career progression opportunities within a growing organisation.
- Employee assistance programme.
- Free onsite parking.
- Full PPE provided.
Why Join Sapphire Utility Solutions?
This is an opportunity to join a growing and ambitious business delivering essential services within the UK's critical infrastructure sector. You'll have the autonomy to influence operational performance, build strong client partnerships, and play a significant role in the future success of our Welsh Water framework.
Sapphire Utility Solutions is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all backgrounds and communities.
Skills Required
- Full UK Driving Licence.
- Proven experience in a senior operational, framework, or contract management role.
- Strong commercial and financial acumen with experience managing budgets and P&L responsibility.
- Experience managing client relationships within a contractual environment.
- Demonstrable leadership experience across multi-site operations.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
- Strong understanding of health, safety, environmental, and compliance requirements.
- Ability to drive performance, manage change, and deliver business objectives.
- Experience within the utilities, water, wastewater, civil engineering, or infrastructure sectors.
- Knowledge of Welsh Water frameworks and regulatory requirements.
- Relevant management or operational qualifications.
What We Do
Lanes Group is the UK's largest privately owned drainage and wastewater utility specialist, providing comprehensive drainage, sewerage repair, and railway works. Serving sectors including water utilities, rail, highways, and energy, the company offers expert services such as CCTV drainage surveys, pipe rehabilitation, and liquid waste removal. They are driven by core corporate values of innovation, integrity, and collaboration.
