Head of Project Operations
Job Description
About the job
Job Description
We are hiring on behalf of our client, a pioneering organization building a leading workspace design and build platform for Africa’s fastest-growing companies. This client is committed to delivering high-quality infrastructure solutions at scale through scalable operational systems that combine global sourcing, cost optimization, and technology-driven project execution.
The Opportunity: Head of Project Operations
We are seeking an experienced and visionary Head of Project Operations to lead the successful delivery of high-value commercial interior fit-out and construction projects. This is a critical senior leadership role responsible for driving project execution excellence, operational efficiency, team performance, and commercial outcomes across multiple concurrent projects.
The successful candidate will oversee project delivery teams, implement scalable systems and processes, and ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. The ideal candidate combines strong operational leadership with deep experience managing large-scale project portfolios and cross-functional teams within the construction, fit-out, engineering, or built-environment sectors.
Reporting Relationships:
- Reports to: Managing Director (MD)
- Direct Reports: Project Managers, Site Engineers, QS Team, Vendor Coordination
Key Responsibilities:Project Delivery & Execution
- Oversee the end-to-end delivery of multiple commercial interior fit-out and construction projects across various locations.
- Ensure projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and according to stringent quality standards.
- Monitor project performance rigorously, proactively identify risks, and implement effective corrective actions.
- Lead regular, impactful project review meetings with delivery teams and key stakeholders.
- Drive exceptional client satisfaction through consistent project execution and transparent communication.
Operational Excellence
- Develop and implement standardized project management frameworks and robust operating procedures.
- Establish comprehensive project reporting systems, intuitive dashboards, and clear performance metrics.
- Strengthen quality assurance, risk management, and project governance processes across the portfolio.
- Improve project visibility through structured reporting and data-driven decision-making.
- Identify and implement continuous operational improvements that support organizational scale and efficiency.
Team Leadership
- Lead, coach, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of project managers, quantity surveyors, site engineers, and other delivery personnel.
- Establish a high-performance culture built on accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Conduct regular performance reviews and actively support capability development across teams.
- Ensure effective and strategic resource allocation across all concurrent projects.
Commercial & Financial Oversight
- Monitor project profitability and financial performance diligently.
- Partner closely with finance and leadership teams on accurate forecasting, comprehensive reporting, and proactive cost management.
- Ensure appropriate and timely management of project variations, change orders, and claims.
- Drive margin improvement initiatives while meticulously maintaining quality and client satisfaction.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Collaborate closely and effectively with design, commercial, procurement, finance, and leadership teams.
- Ensure clear alignment between project scope, client expectations, and successful delivery outcomes.
- Support strategic initiatives aimed at improving overall business performance and growth.
What You’ll Bring:Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or a closely related field.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience managing large-scale construction or interior fit-out projects.
- Demonstrated experience overseeing multiple concurrent projects and leading multidisciplinary teams.
- Strong understanding of project financial management, budgeting, and sophisticated cost control techniques.
- Proven experience in implementing operational systems, processes, and performance frameworks.
- Knowledge of the Nigerian construction and project delivery landscape is highly desirable.
Skills & Competencies
- Strategic Leadership & Vision
- Exceptional Project Delivery & Execution
- Strong Commercial Acumen
- Expert Stakeholder Management
- Proven Operational Excellence
- Robust Risk Management capabilities
- Effective Team Leadership & Development
- Continuous Process Improvement mindset
- Superior Communication & Negotiation Skills
- Proficiency in Data-Driven Decision Making
Success Metrics (First 6 Months):
- Live projects stabilized and consistently tracking to margin and timeline goals.
- Pipeline projects successfully kicked off utilizing new operational systems.
- The company’s Project Lifecycle Playbook fully implemented and adopted across all teams.
- Clear project reporting cadence established with a live, accessible dashboard.
- Achieve 90%+ weekly project reports submitted on time, including comprehensive financials.
- Team culture demonstrably shifted from a blame-oriented to a proactive accountability mindset.
- CEO is no longer required for day-to-day delivery firefighting, indicating strong operational independence.
Preferred Background:
We are particularly interested in candidates who have:
- Led large project delivery teams across multiple sites.
- Managed significant project portfolios within commercial construction or interior fit-out environments.
- Implemented operational systems that tangibly improved project delivery, reporting, quality, or profitability.
- Worked directly and effectively with senior executives, founders, or leadership teams in fast-growing organizations.
Compensation & Benefits:
Competitive compensation package including NGN 1,400,000 monthly net, comprehensive Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) coverage, and pension benefits.
Requirements added by the job poster
• 3+ years of work experience with Daily Operations Management
• 3+ years of Civil Engineering experience
• 3+ years of Construction experience
• 3+ years of Architecture and Planning experience
• 3+ years of work experience with Business Project Management
• 3+ years of work experience with Construction Risk Management
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