Group Chief Operating Officer at Robert Walters

• The Group Chief Operating Officer (GCOO) will play a pivotal role in shaping and executing the company's operational and strategic objectives (Power & Gas). The GCOO will be responsible and accountable for the planning, management, performance, and improvement of the company’s assets.
• He/She will collaborate closely with the GCEO and other senior executives to chart the course for the organisation's future, ensuring alignment with our vision, mission, and core values.
• The GCOO’s expertise in both operational management and strategic planning will be crucial in guiding our company's growth, maximising efficiency, and maintaining our position as a trailblazer in the energy sector.

Strategic Planning and Execution:

• Work closely with the GCEO and the Board of Directors to define and implement the company's long-term strategic plan.
• Develop comprehensive strategies that drive business growth, market expansion, and competitive advantage.
• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and regularly assess progress towards strategic objectives.

Development and Implementation of Operations Strategy:

• Implement required structures and acquire skilled resource to enable the operation strategy execution
• Formulate and execute strategies to enhance operational efficiency, resource optimisation, and workflow management.
• Collaborate with departments to identify process bottlenecks and implement solutions for seamless operations.
• Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement to adapt to changing market dynamics.
• Implement performance measurement systems to track key operational KPIs and adjust strategies accordingly.

Asset Management Strategy:

• Develop comprehensive asset management plans to optimise the life-cycle value of company assets.
• Implement predictive maintenance strategies to minimise downtime and improve asset reliability.
• Lead initiatives to assess and upgrade existing assets for improved efficiency and compliance.
• Establish risk assessment protocols and develop strategies to mitigate asset-related risks.
• Enhance asset tracking systems for better monitoring and utilisation.
• Partner with critical OEMs, suppliers and subject matter experts to enable effective asset management

Capital Programme:

• Provides direction and leadership to the management on the company infrastructure and technology direction
• Oversee the planning and execution of capital projects, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.
• Allocate resources effectively to balance project priorities and optimise return on investment.
• Implement project management best practices to monitor progress, costs, and timelines.

Digital Strategy:

• Lead the development and execution of a digital transformation strategy to enhance operational processes and customer experience.
• Identify opportunities for automation, data analytics, and AI-driven solutions.
• Implement cybersecurity measures to protect digital assets and sensitive data.
• Develop training programs to upskill employees in digital tools and technologies.
• Implement data-driven decision-making processes to optimise operations.

Plant Performance and Assurance Strategy:

• Develop strategies to optimise plant performance and energy production efficiency.
• Implement monitoring and reporting systems to track key operational metrics.
• Establish protocols for plant maintenance, inspections, and regulatory compliance.
• Lead quality assurance initiatives to ensure conformance with industry standards.
• Strengthen emergency response protocols and contingency plans.

Health, Safety, Environment (HSE) / Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG):

• Develop and enforce a comprehensive HSE/ESG framework, prioritising employee safety and environmental responsibility.
• Implement initiatives to reduce the company's carbon footprint and promote sustainability.
• Conduct regular HSE audits and risk assessments, taking corrective actions as necessary.
• Lead the integration of ESG practices into company operations and strategic planning.
• Enhance employee training and awareness programs related to HSE/ESG

Job Requirements:

• Required Experience for Position:Proven track record of at least 10 years in senior leadership roles within the utility and energy industry

Education/Qualification Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field
• MBA or master’s degree is a plus

Competencies & Attributes Required for Position:

• Comprehensive understanding of the energy value chain, energy markets, energy procurement and contracting
• Sound knowledge of current issues in demand-side management and energy industry practices, policies and regulatory requirements.
• Ability to lead long-range strategic planning, including needs assessments, project design, proposal development, budgeting, marketing strategy and customer relations
• Ability to identify and convert opportunities and negotiate complex contracts.
• Ability to prepare, administer, and monitor budgets to meet contractual and statutory requirements.
• Ability to assure compliance with goals, policies and procedures and lead a continuous improvement process.
• Excellent at Risk Management and contingency plans development
• Excellent at preparation of professional reports as required by the Board and other interested parties.
• Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously within stringent time constraints.
• Ability to effectively manage staff and contractors to ensure that deliverables are received within stipulated time, quality, quantity and cost requirements.
• Sound discretion and independent judgement.
• Excellent working relationship with members of the Board and Committees, staff, external stakeholders, contractors and clients.