Lining Operations Manager

A fantastic opportunity has arisen for a Lining Operations Manager to join our team here at Sapphire Utility Solutions. 

The Lining Operations Manager will lead the safe, efficient and high-quality delivery of trenchless rehabilitation works across our drainage portfolio — including CIPP lining, patch repairs, UV lining and resin systems. 

You will oversee planning, resources, quality, safety and client relationships, ensuring projects are delivered right first time and in line with Sapphire standards and industry best practice. 

Operations & Delivery 

• Plan and schedule lining projects from survey through completion 

• Coordinate crews, vehicles, plant and materials across multiple sites 

• Ensure projects are delivered safely on time and within budget 

• Manage both frameworks, planned and reactive works 

• Oversee site logistics including permits, traffic management and access 

Technical & Quality 

• Review CCTV surveys and specify appropriate lining solutions 

• Approve installation methods, curing processes and material selections 

• Troubleshoot lining defects and site challenges proactively 

• Ensure pre-lining preparation meets specification (cleaning, cutting, desilting) 

• Review and sign off post-lining CCTV, reports and quality records 

• Develop solutions and designs that align with department standards and comply with UK specifications and approvals. 

• Ensure materials used in projects meet compliance requirements and undergo testing with independent testing facilities. 

Health, Safety & Compliance 

• Champion Sapphire’s safety culture across all teams 

• Fulfil the obligations of a designer for CDM (Construction Design and Management) purposes. 

• Ensure RAMS are in place and followed-at-all-times 

• Oversee confined space, resin handling and lifting operations 

• Conduct audits, toolbox talks and incident investigations when required 

• Ensure compliance with WRc guidance, ISO systems and client specifications 

People Leadership 

• Lead and support lining supervisors and field crews 

• Plan rotas, workloads, training and competency development 

• Coach teams to deliver consistent quality and productivity 

• Support recruitment and onboarding of new operatives 

Commercial & Client Management 

• Monitor costs, productivity and job margins 

• Approve material orders and hire equipment 

• Build strong relationships with clients, councils and framework partners 

• Manage variations, progress updates and customer enquiries 

• Support the preparation of tenders and pricing where required 

Continuous Improvement 

• Drive operational improvements and innovation in trenchless techniques 

• Reduce waste, defects and rework through root-cause learning 

• Maintain accurate records, reporting and job management data 

Skills & Experience 

Essential 

• Proven experience in drainage / trenchless rehabilitation (CIPP or similar) 

• Strong leadership experience in an operational field environment 

• Excellent understanding of site health & safety 

• Ability to interpret CCTV reports, drawings and technical specs 

• Confident decision-maker with strong problem-solving skills 

• Clear, professional communication with clients and teams 

• IT-literate (job management systems, MS Office) 

Why Join Lanes Group?

At Lanes Group, nothing is more important than the health, safety, and well-being of our people and customers. As the UK’s largest independent specialist infrastructure delivery partner, we:

• Have a turnover exceeding £530 million
• Employ over 4,000 brilliant people nationwide
• Operate through a countrywide network of operational locations

What we offer:

• Holiday allowance and bank holidays 
• Pension
• Death in Service
• Training and progression Opportunities

Our purpose, "Improving today, for your tomorrow," drives us to innovate, sustain, and create lasting solutions that shape a brighter future.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion and believe that our differences make us stronger. As an equal opportunities employer, we welcome and encourage applications from all backgrounds, including underrepresented groups.

Join us and be part of a team that makes a real impact!