Director of Operations

Vacancy Location: Belfast – United Kingdom (50% International travel)

Engagement Type: Permanent

Who are we?

Here at Mowlem Group, we stand at the forefront of civil engineering, and we are proud to be a trusted name in delivering construction, engineering, and infrastructure solutions. We combine technical expertise with a commitment to excellence to bring complex projects to life and we do this safely, efficiently, and sustainably.

We are currently making significant contributions to infrastructure projects around the globe and our commitment is to set the benchmark for technical excellence, offer bespoke and agile services devoid of unnecessary red tape, nurture local expertise to bolster economic resilience, and uphold the highest ethical standards unwaveringly.

With some incredible international projects currently breaking ground and on the horizon, this is a really exciting time to join the team at Mowlem Group.

The Role

Shape the future of infrastructure. Lead at scale. Make an impact that lasts. Some leadership roles are about managing what already exists. This one is about building what comes next.

We are looking for an exceptional hands- on Operations Director to take strategic and operational leadership of multiple business divisions across international markets, shaping how complex infrastructure and civil engineering projects are delivered and setting the standard for operational excellence across the Group.

This is a role for a leader who can see the bigger picture without losing sight of the detail, understands all parts of the business and can dive in and learn new things. Someone who can move confidently between boardroom strategy and project reality, challenge established thinking, build high-performing teams and turn ambitious plans into safe, successful and profitable delivery.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement operational strategies aligned with the Group's business objectives
• Lead and oversee multiple operating divisions across several countries
• Support business growth through operational planning, market expansion, and organisational development
• Contribute to corporate strategy as a member of the executive leadership team
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across all business units

Operational Management

• Provide executive oversight of major infrastructure and civil engineering projects throughout their lifecycle
• Ensure projects are delivered safely, on schedule, within budget, and to contractual requirements
• Monitor operational performance through KPIs, dashboards, and regular business reviews
• Standardise operational processes, governance, and reporting across regions
• Resolve significant operational issues, contractual challenges, and project risks

Commercial Performance

• Drive profitability across all operational divisions
• Work closely with Head of Commercial and Commercial Managers to optimise contract performance and risk management
• Review major bids and tenders, providing operational input into delivery strategies
• Oversee resource planning to maximise utilisation and operational efficiency
• Ensure appropriate controls are in place for cost management and financial forecasting

Leadership & People Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop General Managers, and Project Managers
• Build high-performing leadership teams across all operating regions
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement
• Support succession planning and talent development throughout the organisation
• Champion diversity, inclusion, and employee engagement initiatives
• Promote an uncompromising safety culture across all operations
• Ensure compliance with company policies, client requirements, and international best practice
• Lead investigations into significant incidents and implement corrective actions where required
• Ensure environmental and sustainability objectives are integrated into operational delivery

Client & Stakeholder Management

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with government agencies, clients, consultants, funding organisations, and key stakeholders
• Represent Mowlem Group at executive-level meetings and industry forums
• Support dispute resolution and strategic client engagement
• Enhance the company's reputation through exceptional project delivery and professional leadership

Governance & Risk

• Ensure effective operational governance across all regions
• Monitor project risks and ensure mitigation strategies are implemented
• Maintain compliance with local legislation, contractual obligations, and corporate governance standards
• Support internal and external audits where required

Your Experience & Skills

• International experience managing large-scale infrastructure projects in challenging environments and developing markets
• Experience operating within developing countries and emerging markets – and has a deep understanding and appreciation of cultural differences
• Strong commercial and contractual knowledge
• Demonstrated ability to lead large multidisciplinary teams across diverse cultures
• Excellent strategic planning, negotiation, and decision-making skills
• Experience managing complex operational risk
• Strong financial and commercial acumen
• Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related discipline
• Professional qualification/accreditation for an industry recognised body

Why Work for Mowlem Group?

• Eligibility for the executive share scheme
• Extensive travel opportunities
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Up to £500 towards professional subscription fees that are relevant to your role

Mowlem Group is very pleased to be an equal-opportunities employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive environment where our people feel welcomed, valued and included. As an international company operating across multiple regions, cultures, and communities, we value individuals for who they are, and we know that our strength lies in the diversity of our people.

We want you to have the best possible interview experience with us, so we are committed to creating an accessible and inclusive recruitment process. If we can make any reasonable adjustments or accommodations due to a disability, please don’t hesitate to let us know.

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