Operations Manager

Job Description

Nova International General Contracting is a well established UAE-based company dedicated to delivering excellence in general contracting and construction, specialized in executing branded residences. We are committed to the highest standards of quality, innovation, and client satisfaction in every project we undertake. Our ambition is to grow as a trusted partner and deliver landmark developments that shape the future of the UAE’s built environment. Join us as we set new benchmarks in construction and project delivery.

Job Description

We are seeking a highly experienced Operations Manager to lead the execution and delivery of multiple construction projects across Abu Dhabi. This role oversees full project performance—scope, schedule, cost, quality, and safety—while safeguarding the company’s commercial and contractual interests. Operating as the link between senior management and project teams, the Senior Operations Manager drives operational excellence, ensures alignment with project strategies, and builds high‑performing delivery teams.

The role requires strong leadership, deep construction expertise, and the ability to manage large, complex building and villa compound projects simultaneously.

Key Responsibilities Include

Project Delivery

• Oversee execution of multiple construction projects from mobilization to handover
• Ensure alignment with schedules, budgets, specifications, and project strategies
• Review construction methodologies, sequencing, and resource plans
  

Planning & Controls

• Monitor progress against baselines and key milestones
• Ensure recovery plans are implemented for delayed or at‑risk projects
• Coordinate with planning teams on look‑ahead programs and forecasts
  

Commercial & Contractual Oversight

• Support variation, EOT, and claims strategies with commercial teams
• Monitor cost performance, cash flow, and subcontractor exposure
• Minimize rework, abortive works, and commercial leakage
  

Procurement & Resources

• Coordinate procurement strategies, long‑lead items, and subcontractor performance
• Ensure alignment between procurement schedules and site requirements
• Optimize use of labour, plant, and materials across projects
  

Quality, HSE & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with QA/QC systems, authority requirements, and internal procedures
• Promote a strong safety culture and address major quality or HSE issues
• Support resolution of consultant and authority-related matters
  

Leadership & Reporting

• Lead, mentor, and challenge Project Managers and site leadership teams
• Drive accountability, performance, and team development
• Provide accurate operational reporting to senior management
• Escalate risks early with clear mitigation plans
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or Construction Engineering
• Degree in management is preferable
• 20+ years of construction experience, including multi-project oversight
• Proven experience delivering projects end-to-end
• Strong knowledge of construction operations, planning, and contracts (FIDIC preferred)
• Experience in buildings and villa compound projects
• Preferred background with companies such as ALEC, Innovo, ACC, UNEC, CCC, BESIX, or equivalent
• Key Competencies
• Strong leadership and decision-making
• Technical and operational expertise
• Commercial and contractual awareness
• Effective communication and stakeholder management
• High integrity, ownership, and resilience under pressure
• Ability to remain calm and decisive
• Fearless leadership approach