Operations Director - Brisbane

About the role

An international, well-respected oil and gas EPC is seeking a seasoned Operations Director to take charge of operational performance and project delivery across its Australian operations in Brisbane. The business delivers end-to-end, high-quality and cost-efficient solutions for major projects, including the design, construction, maintenance and decommissioning of assets within the energy and resources industry.

This senior leadership position is suited to a commercially minded operations leader with extensive experience in Greenfield and Brownfield EPC/EPCM delivery. The role offers the chance to help shape strategy, strengthen capability, improve outcomes for clients and lead high-performing teams.

What you will do

• Partner with executive leaders to define operational strategy, lift efficiency, and reduce cost while staying alert to market changes, new technologies, sustainability priorities and operational risk.
• Lead delivery across multiple projects, ensuring schedules, budgets and quality expectations are met, while coordinating stakeholders and providing executive reporting on progress, risks and opportunities.
• Review existing processes and introduce improvements that increase productivity and operational performance, including the use of KPIs and technology-enabled solutions such as automation.
• Manage workforce and other resources to match project and operational requirements, and work with HR to build a strong, accountable and collaborative team culture.
• Oversee compliance, safety and risk controls across operations, including audits, controls and escalation of issues that require broader organisational attention.
• Work closely with business development and functional leaders to identify opportunities, support client relationships, ensure adequate resourcing, and represent the company with clients, subcontractors, vendors and industry groups.
• Own office HSSE responsibilities, including controls, training, inspections and communications aligned to legislation, client requirements and applicable standards, as well as compliance registers, environmental awareness and annual management system reviews.

What you need

• At least 15 years of leadership experience in operations or maintenance contract management within the energy sector, with oil and gas client-side experience highly regarded.
• Hands-on exposure to EPC project management methods and delivery, ideally across both Greenfield and Brownfield environments.
• Strong commercial judgement, including a client-focused approach to winning work, operational delivery, performance management and P&L responsibility.
• Proven ability to set direction, solve complex problems, challenge the status quo, improve efficiency and deliver outcomes aligned to business goals.
• Excellent leadership, communication and stakeholder management skills, along with strong organisation and time management capabilities in a functional structure.
• A collaborative leadership style that promotes respect, motivation, clear communication and a positive team environment for employees and customers alike.
• A bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Project Management, Business Administration or a closely related qualification.

Additional information

The employer values diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. The organisation is committed to building an inclusive workplace and investing in its people and performance.

Applications close on 25 June 2026. Interested candidates should submit a résumé and cover letter referencing VS2026-OD. For confidential enquiries, contact Ryan Hathrill on +61 408 529 239.