The Role
Our Infrastructure Main Contracting client has a new requirement for a well experienced Operations Manager with strong experience in Infrastructure and Heavy Civil Construction projects to join their team in Abu Dhabi. Successful candidates will have a proven background as an Operations Manager on large scale infrastructure and heavy civils projects, ideally in the UAE. Preference will be given to candidates who have worked for recognised infrastructure / main contracting companies previously. This role is available for immediate joining and is a direct hire opportunity, permanently employed by our client. Key Responsibilities: Direct all infrastructure projects to ensure timely, on-budget, and high quality delivery. Lead strategic planning, resource allocation, and risk management. Drive operational efficiency, safety, and sustainability. Oversee senior project teams and engage key stakeholders. Ensure compliance with UAE regulations and ISO standards. Manage the daily operations of each business unit, ensuring efficiency, profitability, and adherence to quality standards. Strategic Planning & Execution: Work with the CEO to set long-term goals, implement strategic plans, and monitor performance against KPIs. Cross-Business Coordination: Streamline processes and identify opportunities for synergy between companies, including shared services, suppliers, and resources. Team Leadership & Communication: Manage and mentor key staff across businesses, ensure clear communication between departments, and support strong leadership at all levels. Problem Solving & Decision Making: Tackle operational challenges proactively, implement effective solutions, and manage risk across varying sectors. Reporting & Analysis: Provide regular performance reports to the CEO, highlighting trends, concerns, and opportunities for growth or optimisation. Project Management: Lead new business launches, refurbishments, or strategic projects from planning through to delivery. Compliance & Governance: Ensure all businesses are operating in line with legal, financial, and regulatory standards applicable.
Requirements
Operations Manager Experience: Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering or related field (Master’s preferred). 25+ years’ experience, including 5+ years in senior leadership. Strong knowledge of project delivery frameworks (e.g., FIDIC). Proficient in Primavera P6, MS Project, and ERP systems. Proven experience managing large-scale infrastructure and heavy civil construction projects Strong understanding of project planning, site execution, HSE, QA/QC, and commercial controls. Ability to manage multiple project sites, lead multidisciplinary teams, and coordinate with clients and consultants. Proficiency in project software tools (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project, Excel). Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills. Willingness to travel as needed to support project delivery across the region. Preferred Qualifications: PMP or equivalent project management certification. Strong contractual and commercial awareness
About the company
J10 Consulting are Construction Recruitment experts in the Middle East. We help businesses and careers grow by delivering Temporary Contract & Permanent Contingency hiring solutions within Construction & Engineering in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain & Kuwait J10 Consulting provide collaborative engagement and a deep understanding of both client and candidate requirements to cover temporary and permanent requirements across a number of vertical markets within Construction & Engineering.