Director of Project Operations

Company Overview

A premier mechanical services firm seeks a Director of Project Operations to manage Service Project Operations across multiple branches. This senior leadership position is tasked with ensuring top operational performance, financial health, efficient project execution, and supporting organizational growth.

Role Overview

The successful candidate will have a strong background leading teams in HVAC, mechanical construction, controls, or building automation projects. They will spearhead project management activities, optimize workflows, cultivate high-performing teams, and collaborate with senior executives on strategic growth plans.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide executive oversight for all Service Project Operations spanning several branch locations.
• Create and implement strategies that enhance profitability and allow for scalable operations.
• Collaborate with leadership to guide business planning and growth trajectories.
• Build and manage dynamic project management teams.
• Oversee the entire project lifecycle, from initial planning through completion.
• Lead Project Managers, Estimators, and Operations personnel.
• Allocate resources efficiently to maximize customer satisfaction.
• Standardize project management procedures and embed operational best practices.
• Deploy recovery plans to address project challenges as required.
• Carry full responsibility for the financial outcomes of the Service Projects division, managing P&L performance.
• Drive improvements in gross margin, operating income, cash flow, labor productivity, backlog growth, and working capital.
• Lead forecasting, financial reviews, billing, collections, and detailed reporting.
• Implement operational discipline to minimize project fade and enhance outcomes.
• Support business development and pursue sustainable long-term revenue growth.
• Work with Sales on enhancing project scopes and pricing strategies.
• Identify profitability opportunities through scope management and change orders.
• Evaluate expansion, acquisition, and growth initiatives operationally.
• Develop enduring relationships with clients and strategic partners, resolving escalated project issues.
• Ensure exceptional project delivery and high customer satisfaction to boost retention.
• Recruit and mentor Project Managers and emerging leaders, advancing succession planning.
• Guide teams on financial management, risk mitigation, communication, conflict resolution, and project recovery.
• Promote a culture emphasizing accountability, collaboration, safety, and continuous improvement.
• Lead and maintain superior safety standards and regulatory compliance, including OSHA requirements.
• Uphold quality and ethical business conduct standards.

Candidate Profile

• Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Business, or a related field.
• Over 10 years of progressive leadership in Project Management, Mechanical Construction, Service Operations, or HVAC Operations.
• Minimum 5 years managing Project Managers and operational teams.
• Proven experience overseeing large-scale HVAC, Mechanical, Controls, Building Automation, or Service Project organizations.
• Demonstrable accountability for divisional P&L and operational improvements.
• Strong track record driving organizational change and operational excellence.

Preferred Expertise

• HVAC & Mechanical Contracting
• Building Automation Systems (BAS)
• Controls Technology
• Construction Operations Management
• Project and Financial Management
• Executive Leadership and Strategic Planning
• Operational Excellence and Change Management
• Budgeting, Forecasting, and Resource Planning
• Business Development
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, ERP, and Project Management Software

Diversity and Inclusion Commitment

We are firmly committed to equal employment opportunity, fostering an inclusive environment welcoming diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences. Employment decisions respect all protected characteristics under applicable laws. Our culture values dignity, respect, equity, and professional growth for all employees.