Chief Operating Officer (Manufacturing / Construction Experience) at Elizabeth Maddeux

Job Summary

• The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operational functions of the construction firm, ensuring projects are delivered efficiently, safely, on time, within budget, and in line with regulatory and quality standards.
• The COO will translate the company’s strategic objectives into executable operational plans, optimize processes, manage project performance, and drive operational excellence across all construction sites and support functions.

Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership:

• Provide overall leadership and direction for construction operations, site management, procurement, logistics, and project delivery teams.
• Ensure seamless coordination between project management, engineering, finance, HR, and supply chain functions.
• Establish and enforce operational policies, procedures, and performance standards.

Project & Construction Management:

• Oversee planning, execution, and delivery of multiple construction projects simultaneously.

• Ensure projects are completed on schedule, within approved budgets, and to required quality specifications.
• Monitor project KPIs, productivity levels, cost controls, and resource utilization.
• Resolve operational bottlenecks, site challenges, and contractor performance issues promptly.

Financial & Cost Control:

• Work closely with the CEO and Finance team to develop and manage operational budgets.
• Drive cost optimization initiatives without compromising safety or quality.
• Review project cost reports, forecasts, and variations to ensure financial discipline.

Health, Safety & Compliance:

• Ensure full compliance with all health, safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Promote a strong safety culture across all sites and operations.
• Ensure adherence to local construction laws, building codes, and industry standards.

Process Improvement & Operational Excellence:

• Develop and implement efficient operational systems, workflows, and performance metrics.
• Identify opportunities to improve productivity, reduce waste, and enhance project delivery efficiency.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives across construction and support operations.

People & Stakeholder Management:

• Lead, mentor, and develop senior managers, project managers, and site leadership teams.
• Support talent development, succession planning, and performance management.
• Act as a key liaison with clients, consultants, subcontractors, vendors, and regulatory bodies.

Strategic Support:

• Partner with the CEO in executing the company’s strategic plan and growth initiatives.
• Provide operational insights to support business expansion, bidding, and new project acquisition.
• Support risk assessment and mitigation strategies for ongoing and future projects.

Key Requirements & Qualifications
Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, Quantity Surveying, or a related field.
• A Master’s degree (MBA, MSc) is an added advantage.

Experience:

• 10 – 15 years of progressive experience in the construction industry.
• At least 4 – 6 years in a senior operational or leadership role (e.g., Operations Manager, Project Director, Deputy COO).
• Proven experience managing multiple construction projects and large operational teams.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong operational and project management expertise.
• Deep understanding of construction processes, contracts, and site operations.
• Excellent financial acumen, budgeting, and cost-control skills.
• Strong leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and deliver results in fast-paced environments.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• On-time and on-budget project delivery
• Operational cost efficiency
• Health & safety performance metrics
• Project quality and client satisfaction
• Productivity and workforce efficiency.