Operations Manager – East African Operations

About the role

We are looking for an experienced Operations Manager to lead our construction activities across East Africa. The role combines strategic leadership with hands‑on project oversight to ensure safe, on‑time, and profitable delivery of large‑scale EPC, civil and industrial projects.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and manage all construction operations across East Africa, ensuring operational excellence.
• Develop and implement operational strategies aligned with business objectives and growth plans.
• Oversee multiple EPC, civil, infrastructure, commercial, industrial and building projects from mobilization through handover.
• Drive project profitability through effective planning, cost control, productivity improvement and resource optimisation.
• Provide leadership to Project Managers, Construction Managers, Commercial teams, Planning Engineers, Procurement teams and support functions.
• Monitor schedules, budgets, KPIs, contractual obligations, quality, HSE performance and client satisfaction.
• Establish governance, project controls and operational reporting systems.
• Identify operational risks and implement mitigation strategies to ensure business continuity.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, consultants, government authorities, subcontractors and key stakeholders.
• Support tender reviews, project planning, resource allocation and execution strategies.
• Ensure compliance with contractual requirements, company policies, international standards and local regulations.
• Drive continuous improvement, digital transformation and best practices across all business units.
• Mentor and develop high‑performing leadership teams while building local organisational capability.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering or a related discipline.
• Master’s degree in Construction Management, Project Management, Engineering Management or equivalent (mandatory).
• PMP® certification (mandatory).
• Additional certifications in leadership, contract management or business management are an advantage.
• 15–20 years of progressive experience managing large‑scale EPC, commercial, industrial, infrastructure and civil construction projects within regional contracting organisations.

Required skills

• Project Management
• Construction Management
• Cost Control
• Resource Optimisation
• Risk Management
• HSE Management