Operations Manager - Substation Projects

About the RoleWe are seeking an experienced Operations Manager / Projects Director to lead the delivery of our substation construction portfolio, spanning greenfield builds, brownfield upgrades, and AIS/GIS installations across [transmission/distribution] voltage levels. This is a senior leadership role responsible for operational delivery, commercial performance, and team leadership across all active substation projects.Key ResponsibilitiesOperational LeadershipOwn end-to-end delivery of all substation projects — from contract award through construction, testing/commissioning, and handoverSet and enforce project execution standards, schedules, and quality benchmarks across the project portfolioAct as the escalation point for project risks, delays, and technical/commercial disputesDrive standardization of project controls, reporting, and execution methodology across sites.Substation Project ManagementProvide hands-on oversight of substation-specific execution: civil works, structural steel, equipment installation (transformers, GIS/AIS switchgear, protection & control panels), cabling, testing, and commissioningEnsure compliance with relevant grid codes, utility specifications, and safety/regulatory standards (e.g., IEC/IEEE, local utility/TSO requirements)Manage interfaces with clients, utilities, EPC partners, and equipment OEMsOversee scheduling and resourcing across concurrent substation projects to avoid conflicts and delaysP&L and Commercial ManagementFull ownership of the operations P&L — revenue, cost, margin, and cash flow across the project portfolioReview and approve project budgets, cost forecasts, and variance analysesPartner with commercial/finance teams on contract terms, change orders, claims, and margin protectionIdentify cost overruns early and implement corrective action plansReport portfolio financial performance to executive leadership on a regular cadenceTeam LeadershipLead, mentor, and develop Project Managers, Site Managers, and engineering staffBuild a high-performing operations team; manage hiring, performance, and succession planningFoster a strong safety culture across all sites (HSE ownership).Stakeholder ManagementServe as senior client-facing representative for major accounts and utility relationshipsManage relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and regulatory bodiesSupport business development with technical/commercial input on new bids and tendersRequired QualificationsBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (Master's/MBA a plus)15+ years in construction/EPC, with a minimum of 8-10 years specifically in substation project management.Demonstrated ownership of P&L — budgeting, cost control, margin management, and financial reporting at a project or portfolio levelProven track record managing multiple concurrent substation projects from award to energizationStrong working knowledge of substation equipment, testing/commissioning procedures, and applicable codes/standardsExperience managing client, utility, and regulatory relationshipsStrong leadership experience managing multi-disciplinary teams (engineering, construction, commercial).Preferred QualificationsPMP or equivalent project management certificationExperience with EPC or turnkey substation contractsFamiliarity with contract types (FIDIC, NEC, lump-sum, cost-plus) and claims management