Director – Operations and Mechanical Projects

The Director – Operations and Mechanical Projects is responsible for leading mechanical project execution and operational excellence across the organization. This role focuses on planning, executing, and delivering complex mechanical projects while simultaneously ensuring the smooth operation of mechanical assets. The director will lead multidisciplinary teams and coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to deliver results aligned with business objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Project Planning & Execution:

• Oversee end-to-end delivery of mechanical projects including piping systems, HVAC, rotating/static equipment, utilities, and plant upgrades.

• Lead project planning, resource allocation, cost estimation, and scheduling.

• Ensure timely delivery, adherence to quality standards, and compliance with technical specifications.

2. Operational Leadership:

• Manage day-to-day mechanical operations across plants or facilities.

• Ensure high availability and reliability of mechanical systems and equipment.

• Drive continuous improvement in operational KPIs (uptime, efficiency, cost).

3. Stakeholder & Vendor Coordination:

• Collaborate with engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning teams.

• Manage relationships with contractors, OEMs, and consultants to ensure project and operational objectives are met.

• Ensure compliance with contractual obligations and safety protocols.

4. Budgeting & Cost Management:

• Develop and control budgets for mechanical projects and operations.

• Identify opportunities for cost reduction, process optimization, and resource efficiency.

• Track and report project and operational expenditures against KPIs.

5. Quality, Safety & Compliance:

• Enforce safety standards and regulatory compliance across all operations and projects.

• Lead safety audits, root cause analysis, and implementation of corrective actions.

• Ensure QA/QC protocols are followed during project execution and operations.

6. Team Leadership:

• Lead and mentor teams of project engineers, operation managers, maintenance engineers, and technical staff.

• Establish performance benchmarks and ensure effective knowledge transfer and capacity building.

7. Innovation & Technology Integration:

• Champion the adoption of digital tools (e.g., CMMS, project management software, condition monitoring).

• Promote data-driven decision-making and predictive maintenance strategies.

• Evaluate and implement emerging technologies to improve project and operational outcomes.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Execution of Large-Scale Mechanical Projects

2. Mechanical Asset Operation & Performance Optimization

3. Project Cost, Schedule, and Quality Management

4. Safety Leadership and Regulatory Compliance

5. Cross-functional Team & Contractor Coordination

6. Digital Tools for Project & Operations Efficiency

7. Sustainability, Energy Efficiency, and Innovation

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (Master’s or PMP certification is a plus).

• 15–20+ years of experience in mechanical operations and project management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.

• Proven experience in managing multidisciplinary projects in heavy industry, utilities, manufacturing, or infrastructure.

• Strong knowledge of project management methodologies, mechanical systems, and O&M practices.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strategic Planning & Execution

• Project Management (cost, time, quality control)

• Mechanical Engineering & System Design

• Operations & Maintenance Excellence

• Risk Management and Compliance

• Financial Acumen and Budget Control

• Strong Leadership and Team Development

• Communication, Negotiation, and Stakeholder Management