Director of Operations

Job Summary The Director of Operations leads all operational activities across multiple construction projects, ensuring the effective execution of complex works such as multi-storey buildings, infrastructure, and technical structures. The role focuses on standardizing processes, strengthening project governance, improving performance, and safeguarding deadlines, costs, quality, safety, and cash flow. The COO ensures strong QHSE and ISO compliance while enhancing operational maturity and supporting the company’s growth. Job Responsibilities Operational Leadership (Multi-Projects) • Translate the CEO’s vision into operational plans and oversee execution. • Establish project governance structures, including committees, RACI, reporting routines, and escalation paths. • Allocate priorities, resources, subcontracting, and strategic purchases across projects. • Coordinate between headquarters, sites, and external partners (clients, consultants, JV partners, subcontractors). End-to-End Project Management • Oversee the full project lifecycle: estimation, contracting, kick-off, execution, handover, and closure. • Ensure adherence to targets for schedule, cost, quality, safety, and environment. • Anticipate and manage technical, planning, contractual, and supply-chain risks. Financial Performance & Operational Controlling • Manage project margins, budgets, commitments, productivity, and corrective actions. • Monitor cash flow: invoicing, collection, advances, and cost control. • Strengthen dashboards, KPIs, tracking systems, and decision traceability. • Use ERP tools (e.g., Odoo) and project management systems (Excel, Smartsheet, MS Project, etc.). Technical Procurement & Subcontracting • Structure the purchasing process: tenders, comparisons, negotiations, contracting, and quality control. • Select and evaluate subcontractors (capability, performance, QHSE compliance, schedule adherence). • Manage supply-chain risks and secure critical materials. Processes, Methods & Operational Excellence • Deploy standardized procedures: site processes, checklists, quality plans, execution plans, risk registers. • Standardize planning practices (WBS, dependencies, critical path, contractual milestones). • Promote a strong execution culture based on rigor, documentation, and accountability. QHSE & ISO Compliance • Ensure full implementation of QHSE and ISO (9001, 14001, 45001) standards. • Prepare and manage internal/external audits and corrective action plans. • Promote a zero-accident culture and strong environmental and documentation practices. Team Leadership & Development • Lead project directors, project managers, and site managers, and build overall team capability. • Set objectives, monitor performance, drive development plans, and oversee key recruitments. • Strengthen managerial discipline, accountability, and results orientation. Client Relations & Contract Management • Serve as the senior interface with clients and stakeholders. • Manage contractual aspects: letters, variations, instructions, claims, and scope protection. • Maintain positive client relationships while protecting company interests (deadlines, payments, scope). Requirements Education • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction, Engineering, or Management (or equivalent experience). • Additional training in project management or industrial management is an advantage. Experience • Minimum 20 years in construction/infrastructure, including multi-project management and performance oversight. • Strong experience with complex, multi-stakeholder projects (clients, consultants, subcontractors, partners). • Proven ability to structure and scale operational organizations. Technical Competencies • Expertise in managing complex multi-project operations (planning, cost control, risk management). • Strong background in technical procurement, subcontracting, and supply chain management. • Solid financial acumen: margin management, cash flow, commitments control, ERP analytics. • Strong understanding of QHSE fundamentals and ISO standards (9001, 14001, 45001). Soft Skills • Strong leadership, decisiveness, and ability to manage priorities under pressure. • Effective communication and client-facing skills with the ability to handle tension and complex situations. • Results-oriented, rigorous, reliable, and structured mindset. Additional Requirements • Fluent in French; professional level in English. • Willingness to travel regularly to project sites. • Availability during critical project phases (launch, key milestones, crises, delivery).