Introduction

MarinTrust is the leading independent certification scheme for the marine ingredient value chain, with a vision to advance best practice in the responsible sourcing, traceability and production of marine ingredients. We are seeking a dynamic and enthusiastic Operations Manager to lead the development and oversight of operational systems and to ensure the overall efficiency of the organisation. This role includes direct line management of the part-time Office Manager.

Purpose of the Role

To ensure effective operational systems, financial processes and HR support to support MarinTrust’s ability to achieve its strategic objectives.

Key Responsibilities 

Operational Systems & Compliance:

  • Lead the development, implementation, and maintenance of the Operational Management System (OMS).
  • Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations including UK Employment and Health & Safety Regulations.
  • Coordinate operational budgeting and day-to-day financial reporting in collaboration with the external CFO (part-time) and external bookkeeper.
  • Oversee crisis management and data governance systems in collaboration with the Assurance & Risk Manager.
  • Support the CEO and senior staff to align operations with strategic objectives.
  • Ensure effective HR processes and support a high-performance team environment.
  • Ensure service quality in certification processes and client services.

Financial Collaboration:

  • Manage invoicing, payment approvals, and expense tracking together with the external CFO and bookkeeper to ensure financial targets are met.
  • Work closely with the external CFO and external bookkeeper to maintain accurate and up to date financial records and ensure timely reporting.
  • Monitor day-to-day operational spending and support the CEO and external CFO in delivering the approved annual budget.
  • Ensure financial processes follow internal controls and support compliance requirements.
  • Prepare and provide financial information needed for internal and external audits.
  • Support financial reporting cycles by coordinating with the external CFO, bookkeeper, and auditors.
  • Track financial KPIs and flag risks or variances in spending to the CEO and external CFO.

People & Resource Management:

  • Provide line management and collaborative support to the Office Manager and oversee administrative functions.
  • Develop performance metrics and support staff capacity planning.
  • Coordinate internal communications and ensure resource allocation is aligned with business needs.

External Relationships:

  • Oversee procurement, contracts, and relationships with key service providers (CRM, IT, events, etc.)
  • Represent operational interests in external communications when required.

Person Specification

Technical Knowledge and Experience:

  • Strong understanding of organisational operations, including financial and HR systems (Essential).
  • Experience developing and implementing operational systems and compliance frameworks (Essential).
  • Experience in business development, including finding new opportunities, managing clients, and supporting sales growth (Essential).
  • Understanding of commercial strategy, including pricing, market analysis, and contract management (Essential).
  • Experience supporting marketing strategy, including market positioning, branding, and stakeholder engagement (Desirable).
  • Knowledge of certification processes and quality assurance standards (Desirable).

Collaborative Skills:

  • Ability to work cross-functionally and coordinate with technical, client services, and quality control teams.
  • Proven ability to collaborate effectively with internal and external staff, up to CFO and CEO levels, to maintain robust financial processes.
  • Skilled in managing and developing diverse teams.

Management and Organisational Abilities:

  • High level of organisational and planning skills.
  • Experience in overseeing multiple service providers and suppliers.

Communication:

  • Excellent command of the English Language, proficient in written, verbal, and face-to-face communication.
  • Capable of clear reporting to the CEO and managing stakeholder relationships.

Personal Attributes:

  • Strategic thinker with a hands-on approach.
  • Self-sufficient, resilient, proactive, and solution oriented.
  • Committed to high standards and continuous improvement.
  • Good credibility, trustworthiness, problem solving, task management and self-management competencies.
  • Excellent team player with a strong focus on working together to achieve results.
  • Discretion and confidentiality.
  • Comfortable with working in an environment of change, with flexible approach to new challenges.
  • Ability to remain professional under all circumstances.
  • Show a high level of drive and commitment that the key aims and objectives of the role are achieved.
  • Ability to take instruction and provide clear instruction to others.

Qualifications and Experience

  • Degree in Business Administration, Operations Management or related field (Essential).
  • Minimum 5 years’ experience in an operations role, preferably in a standard-setting or certification environment (Essential).
  • Financial management qualifications or training (Desirable).
  • Experience managing teams or projects

Working Arrangements

  • Position: Full-time 
  • Reporting: This position reports to the CEO
  • London office-based (SE17) three days a week two days working remotely

Applications

All applications including full CV/resumé, an indication of an expected annual salary and a cover letter should be sent to: [email protected].

Please provide the contact details of two individuals that would be able to provide references if required. Marin Trust reserves the right to contact these individuals directly. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. The deadline for sending applications is 2 February 2026.