Leo W E Cruz

Highly experienced and results-driven operations, facilities, and project professional with over 17 years of leadership across multi-site environments, public sector estates, and commercial operations. Proven track record managing complex service delivery contracts, leading multidisciplinary teams, and maintaining high standards of client satisfaction, compliance, and operational performance. Extensive experience in coordinating contractors, managing stakeholders, and delivering services aligned with KPIs, SLAs, and regulatory requirements.

Strong ability to oversee multiple workstreams, conduct site inspections, and implement improvements that enhance efficiency and service quality. Currently working as a Business Consultant and Project Adviser, bringing additional expertise in project planning, stakeholder engagement, compliance, and operational strategy. Fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, with strong international business exposure and a proactive, solutions-focused leadership approach.

Business Consultant | Strategic Adviser | Project Manager at Self-Employed (2023-11 – Present)

• Deliver project-based consultancy to SMEs, charities, and community organisations, supporting end-to-end project planning, coordination, and delivery.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring delivery within agreed timelines, scope, and operational requirements.
• Develop structured project plans, including task sequencing, resource allocation, and timeline management.
• Act as a key point of contact for stakeholders, ensuring effective communication and alignment across all parties.
• Coordinate external providers and service partners, supporting procurement processes and operational delivery.
• Produce progress reports and maintain visibility of project performance, risks, and outcomes.
• Identify operational risks and implement solutions to maintain continuity and efficiency.
• Facilitate meetings and stakeholder workshops to align objectives and resolve challenges.
• Support financial planning activities including budget awareness, cost tracking, and resource optimisation.

International Business & Commercial Representation at Self-Employed (2023-11 – Present)

• Represent Goya Foods in the UK market, supporting distribution, client engagement, and commercial development.
• Act as UK representative for a Netherlands-based company, supporting business development and operational coordination.
• Manage import processes into the UK, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and documentation.
• Liaise with international suppliers, logistics partners, and UK clients to ensure smooth operations and delivery.
• Support negotiations, supplier coordination, and relationship management across international stakeholders.

Chair & Strategic Director at Collingham Gardens Nursery (Charity) (2022-05 – 2024-10)

• Led a full-scale turnaround of a struggling early years charity, restoring compliance, stabilising staffing, and improving parent satisfaction.
• Managed internal investigations, addressed HR disputes, and rebuilt relationships with staff and community stakeholders.
• Introduced new staff contracts and pay reviews, creating a healthier work culture and reducing turnover.
• Supported the restructuring of nursery governance, establishing transparency in finance, payroll, and board decision-making.
• Delivered engagement plans for parents and local authorities to rebuild trust after previous mismanagement.

Facilities Manager / Assistant FM / Cleaning Supervisor at Mitie Plc (DWP Government Sites) (2021-07 – 2023-11)

• Oversaw operations of nine government buildings, managing all aspects of soft and hard FM services, health & safety, and cleaning contracts.
• Conducted risk assessments, implemented COSHH/H&S training, and improved compliance ratings across sites.
• Managed and scheduled large teams, ensuring high service standards across facilities.
• Achieved measurable cost savings while maintaining client satisfaction and SLA/KPI performance.
• Played a key role in coordinating contractor performance and site-level inspections.

Apprenticeship Business Consultant at DL Business Consultancy (2020 – 2021)

• Delivered strategic advice to small businesses and community-led initiatives.
• Supported grant writing, funding applications, business registration, and project development.
• Helped underserved communities establish enterprises aligned with local and economic needs.

MSc in International Project Management – Anglia Ruskin University (2023 – 2025)

BA (Hons) in International Business Management – Anglia Ruskin University (2018 – 2023)