Operations managers play a central role at Lanes Group. They coordinate people, resources and services to keep wastewater and drainage operations running safely and efficiently across the UK. From planning daily workloads to responding to urgent customer needs, they make sure teams are supported and projects stay on track.

Lanes relies on operations managers to maintain high standards and deliver reliable services to millions of customers. Their decisions shape how we work, how we respond, and how we meet the demands of a fast-moving industry.

This guide explains what an operations manager does, the skills the role requires, and the career opportunities available for those looking to take on a leadership position within our nationwide network.

What Is the Role of an Operations Manager?

An operations manager is responsible for coordinating the delivery of drainage, wastewater and utilities across the UK. The role brings together planning, problem-solving and people management, ensuring teams have what they need, work is delivered safely and efficiently, and services run as expected. It’s a position that focuses on using resources well, supporting staff and maintaining consistent standards across all areas of the operation.

At Lanes Group, our operations managers’ roles involve managing teams, monitoring live workloads, responding to changing site conditions and making sure every job meets strict safety, environmental and quality requirements.

The Operations Manager Role at Lanes Group

At Lanes Group, operations managers play a hands-on part in keeping our drainage and wastewater services running smoothly. Rather than sitting in the background, they’re closely involved in the day-to-day activity of our depots - making sure field teams have the right kit, the right information and the right support to do their jobs safely and efficiently.

Much of the role is about leading people. Operations managers work closely with field managers and frontline teams, helping them stay organised, solve problems on the go and deliver the high standard of service our customers expect. That might mean coaching team members, improving communication across the depot or stepping in to resolve issues quickly when they arise.

Budgeting and planning also come into play. Operations managers help their depot meet targets, use resources wisely and support wider business growth. It’s a role for someone who likes variety - part leadership, part problem-solving, part operational planning - and who enjoys seeing the direct impact of their work on the service we provide.

Essential Skills for a Successful Operations Manager

To excel in operations management, you need a diverse and robust skill set. Successful operations managers combine analytical thinking with strong leadership and communication abilities.

Here are some of the essential skills required:

• Leadership and team management: the ability to lead, motivate and guide teams is non-negotiable.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving: good operations managers can analyse complex situations, identify areas for improvement and develop innovative solutions.
• Project management: effectively planning, executing and monitoring projects is crucial to the role.
• Communication skills: an operations manager interacts with everyone from direct reports and vendors to senior leadership and customers, requiring highly effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Data analysis: the ability to analyse data, identify trends, forecast demand and turn information into action is vital for monitoring performance.
• Financial management: proficiency in managing budgets, controlling costs and understanding financial reports is key to driving profitability.
• Technological Proficiency: using digital tools, from enterprise resource planning systems to AI, is increasingly important for tracking inventory, gathering data and managing relationships.

Start Your Career in Operations Management with Lanes Group

If you’re someone who enjoys leading teams, solving problems and staying close to the action, operations management could be a rewarding next step, and Lanes Group is one of the best places to build that career. Working in the UK’s leading drainage and wastewater organisation means stepping into a role where no two days look the same, and where your decisions can make a real difference to people, teams and essential services.

Many of our operations managers join us because they’re looking for a role that offers variety and long-term stability. With 25 depots across the UK, there’s scope to work in different regions, explore new challenges and find a shift pattern that fits the way you live. The structure is already in place - what you bring is the energy, curiosity and drive to make things happen.

Training is another big part of life at Lanes. You’ll have access to tailored development programmes, guidance from experienced colleagues and support that grows with you. Our commitment to health and safety underpins everything we do, and our teams take pride in the standards they uphold.
If you’re a natural leader with the confidence to support others, respond to challenges and keep things running smoothly, operations management at Lanes could be a strong fit. Experience in drainage or utilities helps, but it isn’t a requirement. Many of our best managers come from completely different backgrounds and bring fresh thinking with them.

Join the Lanes family today. Take a look at our latest operations manager jobs and apply.

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