Director of Operations

Zutari: Co-creating an engineered impact.

Zutari is a well-established, management-owned engineering firm with almost 90 years' experience. As human-centred engineering consultants and advisors, we are trusted by our clients, business partners, communities and other stakeholders across Africa.

We co-create engineering solutions that have a positive impact and improve people's lives. Zutari values inclusion and recognises the importance of a diverse, talented workforce, believing that people need other people to succeed.

What kind of talent do we pursue?

We employ people with the right attitude and a positive mindset, who are motivated by doing the right thing, getting things done and share a sense of urgency. People who have an impact in our teams and broader community. People who think differently and connect with those around them to co-create new opportunities and leave a meaningful legacy.

As the Operations Director for the Built Environment business unit in Zutari, the incumbent will play an instrumental role in driving the operational success of the business unit. The incumbent is tasked with operationalising and leading strategic initiatives, managing day to day operations, ensuring consistent service delivery, co-ordinating cross functional collaboration whilst ensuring the operational efficiencies to achieve Zutari's business objectives.

This pivotal role requires strong leadership, strategic vision, and the ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders that delivers exceptional value to our clients whilst ensuring market penetration and the delivery of projects. The incumbent will also be responsible for establishing operational goals, metrics, and KPIs to measure performance and monitor progress at a business unit level.

Role responsibilities

Strategy Formulation and Operational implementation:

• Contribute to the development of a comprehensive strategy for the business unit aligned with Zutari's overarching goals and objectives.
• Operationalise and monitor the implementation and execution of strategy in the business unit.
• Share insights gained in project delivery to identify opportunities, meet client needs and ensure competitive intelligence

Service Delivery and Risk Mitigation:

• Support the development of strong and meaningful relationships with clients and stakeholders to understand their needs and deliver tailored solutions.
• Review project technical and commercial delivery approach and risk elements pre-contract to prevent and mitigate downstream delivery risks.
• Ensure project setup according to "The Way We Work" requirements (digital, knowledge management, resourcing, H&S, QES, etc).
• Selection, accreditation and appointment of appropriate Project Executives and Opportunity Managers to lead projects from inception to close out.
• Ensure successful delivery of all projects within the business unit, adhering to quality requirements, timelines and ensuring commercial success.
• Focus on service delivery to ensure client acquisition and retention of key clients.
• Monitor project progress and performance to proactively identify potential risks or issues and implement mitigation strategies to ensure project success.
• Escalate commercial, technical, financial and reputational risks to the appropriate levels.

Resource Management:

• Optimize the efficient use of business unit and Zutari resources to align with current and future work demands, maximizing operational effectiveness.
• Allocate resources effectively, considering project priorities, staff capabilities, and budget constraints.
• Ensure that there is appropriate technical training and development for existing AND new staff to ensure quality work across the business unit.

Operational Management:

• Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring efficient project delivery, training of employees, resource allocation, and budget management.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive operational excellence.
• Give guidance to opportunity management, structuring of responses and partner management.
• Implement and oversee technical standards, procedures and compliance within the business unit.

Financial Performance:

• Monitor financial metrics, analyse variances, and implement corrective actions as necessary to achieve financial objectives.
• Oversee and review change in project scope (variation orders) in support of the project managers.
• Responsible for the financial performance of the business unit, in accordance with business plans and budgets.

Optimise Operations:

• Implement measures to ensure value creation and enhance operational efficiency within the business unit, including proactive cost management initiatives.
• Streamline processes, identify opportunities for improvement, and drive operational excellence across the business unit to enhance productivity.

Collaboration and Co-ordination

• Ensure effective communication and collaboration across business units to co-ordinate smooth execution.
• Co-ordinate seamless integration of solutions and delivery of offerings.
• Build and maintain relationships with key strategic partners, clients, and industry bodies.

Experience/Knowledge

• At least 8-10 years of proven experience in an operations role of a similar nature.
• Experience working in the engineering or consulting profession is preferred.
• Must have a network, and experience working with both private and government clients.
• Proven leadership and management experience in a professional services environment with a focus on operational efficiency.
• Strong understanding of customer relationship management, client services, and account management.
• Ability to identify potential operational risks proactively, assess, develop and implement risk
• Proven track record o managing the responses to operational risks and crisis.
• Strong understanding of professional services
• Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to leverage data to drive strategic decision-making
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present to clients and internal stakeholders.
• Ability to adapt to changing client needs and market and industry dynamics to ensure market penetration

Minimum requirements

• Education / Certification / Membership Required 
• Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, or a related field
• Bachelor's degree in engineering, or a related field
• Certified Project Management Profession (PMP)
• Registered Engineering Professional (PrEng)
• MBA or similar 

Competencies

• Strategic thinker with a focus on operational efficiency, business development, and revenue objectives.
• Results-driven and committed to driving a high-performance client-centric culture.
• Strong ethical and integrity principles. Values driven.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional, culturally diverse internal teams and external clients.
• Proficiency in overseeing project delivery and resource allocation. Commitment to providing support to employees.
• Customer-focused, identify and implement solutions for customers challenges
• Ability to adapt quickly, handle changing priorities and work effectively under pressure.
• Willingness to work collaboratively with colleagues and stakeholders to achieve common goals.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and maintain confidentiality.
• Desire to stay updated on policies, regulations, and best practices.

We believe that a diverse workforce is key to our business success.  We seek the best people for our jobs based on their skills, qualifications, and experience.  We embrace the principle of equal opportunity in employment and work towards eliminating all forms of unlawful discrimination in our employment practices.  In support of diversity and the equal opportunity principle, preference will be given to individuals from designated groups in South Africa.