Operations Manager

About the Company

Nova International General Contracting is an established UAE contracting and construction business with a focus on delivering high-quality branded residence developments. The company aims to combine innovation, strong execution, and client-focused delivery to create landmark projects that contribute to the UAE’s built environment.

Role Overview

The company is looking for an experienced Operations Manager to oversee the delivery of several construction projects across Abu Dhabi. The position is responsible for managing overall project performance, including scope, time, cost, quality, and safety, while also protecting the organization’s commercial and contractual position. This role acts as the connection between senior leadership and project teams, driving operational efficiency and supporting high-performing delivery teams.

The ideal candidate should bring strong leadership capability, extensive construction knowledge, and the ability to manage multiple large-scale building and villa compound projects at the same time.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct the execution of multiple construction projects from mobilization through to final handover.
• Keep project delivery aligned with timelines, budgets, specifications, and approved strategies.
• Review construction approaches, work sequencing, and manpower/equipment plans.
• Track progress against baseline schedules and important milestones.
• Put recovery actions in place for projects that are behind schedule or at risk.
• Work with planning teams on short-term look-ahead plans and forecasting.
• Assist commercial teams with variations, extension-of-time matters, and claims strategies.
• Monitor cost trends, cash flow, and subcontractor exposure across projects.
• Reduce rework, abortive work, and unnecessary commercial losses.
• Coordinate procurement plans, long-lead materials, and subcontractor performance.
• Make sure procurement timing matches site needs.
• Improve utilisation of labour, plant, and materials across all projects.
• Ensure compliance with QA/QC requirements, authority regulations, and internal procedures.
• Encourage a strong safety culture and address significant quality or HSE issues.
• Support the resolution of matters raised by consultants and authorities.
• Lead, coach, and challenge Project Managers and site leadership teams.
• Promote accountability, strong performance, and continuous team development.
• Deliver clear and accurate operational updates to senior management.
• Identify risks early and communicate practical mitigation measures.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or Construction Engineering is required.
• A management qualification is considered an advantage.
• At least 20 years of construction experience, including oversight of several projects at once.
• Demonstrated success in managing projects from start to finish.
• Strong understanding of construction operations, planning, and contracts; FIDIC knowledge is preferred.
• Experience working on building developments and villa compound projects.
• Prior exposure to companies such as ALEC, Innovo, ACC, UNEC, CCC, BESIX, or similar organizations is preferred.
• Strong leadership and sound judgment.
• Solid technical and operational capability.
• Commercial and contractual awareness.
• Good communication and stakeholder management skills.
• High integrity, ownership, and resilience in demanding situations.
• Ability to stay calm and make decisions confidently.
• Bold and proactive leadership style.

Additional Information

Nova International General Contracting is an equal opportunity employer. The company promotes a diverse and inclusive workplace and treats all employees fairly and respectfully. Hiring decisions are based on qualifications, experience, and business needs, without unlawful discrimination, and in line with applicable UAE labor and employment laws. Employment is also subject to compliance with UAE regulatory requirements, including work permits and residency visas where relevant.

Location

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates