Operations Manager (Civils / Utilities) in Belfast

Your new company Hays Belfast are currently recruiting an Operations Manager for a leading Contractor working across the utilities and civil engineering sector, delivering complex infrastructure projects with a reputation for quality, safety, and innovation. The business prides itself on strong client relationships, operational excellence, and a commitment to "Right First Time" delivery. With a growing portfolio of projects across the UK and Ireland, this is an exciting time to join a dynamic and forward-thinking organisation.

Joining this company will see you take on Operation delivery for their All Ireland based projects, where you will be based in their Belfast office 2 to 3 days a week and on site and vice versa on site.

Your new role As Operations Manager, you will oversee the operational delivery of multiple projects within agreed targets for time, quality, and cost. This is a pivotal leadership role, ensuring that all work is executed safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards. Projects will span across all of Ireland and include works across Civil Engineering, Ducting, EV Stations and Electrical Substations. Projects will range from smaller works up to £7million projects, and your role will be to programme and manage workload, be client and stakeholder liaison, quality assurance and oversee budgets.

• Manage day-to-day project delivery across Ireland, including safety, quality, street works, and supplier performance.
• Drive a safety first culture across all field operations.
• Lead ongoing civils and cabling contracts, ensuring compliance with company standards and client KPIs.
• Investigate incidents, quality failures, and service issues, implementing corrective actions.
• Work closely with commercial teams to identify risks impacting budgets and costs.
• Manage supplier relationships and monitor adherence to company standards.
• Set clear objectives for direct reports and conduct regular performance reviews.
• Oversee budgets, cost control, and resource allocation for each project.
• Deliver contractual KPIs and SLAs, ensuring client satisfaction and operational excellence.
• Conduct audits of staff performance and quality construction to maintain quality standards.
• Build strong relationships with key partners and stakeholders in the region.

What you'll get in return: This role will offer you a split between their Belfast office based and site duties as well as: Competitive Salary & Bonus Scheme. Rewarding your experience and performance. Company Vehicle or Car Allowance. Pension & Private Healthcare Life Assurance & Employee Assistance Programme Professional Development Recognition & Rewards Dynamic Work Environment. Be part of a growing, innovative organisation shaping the future of utilities and civils delivery.

What you'll need to succeed: Experience in a similar utilities industry role at a senior level with a proven track record in operational management. Strong background in civils projects, including both field and back-office elements. Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate teams, including contractor partners. Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills. Commercially astute with experience managing budgets and KPIs. Proficient in Microsoft Office with strong literacy and numeric skills. Full, clean driving licence and flexibility to travel as required. Knowledge of construction and engineering contracts. Innovative, proactive, and solution-focused approach to challenges.

If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call Chris McNamara now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.