Operations Manager, EXC

Job Summary

The Operations Manager is a leader responsible for driving profitable growth while ensuring operational excellence across the organization. This role oversees business development and market expansion efforts while leading the day-to-day performance of Project Management and Field Operations teams.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Business Development and Market Growth
• Develop and execute market growth strategies aligned with company objectives.
• Identify, pursue, and secure new business opportunities in underground civil and electrical infrastructure markets.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with utilities, municipalities, general contractors, developers, and key clients.
• Partner with estimating and preconstruction teams to position the company competitively.
• Participate in bid strategy, proposal reviews, pricing discussions, and risk assessments.
• Monitor market trends, competitive activity, and emerging opportunities.
• Establish revenue targets and growth plans by region or service line.
• Represent the company at industry events and networking functions.
• Operational Leadership – Project Management
• Lead and develop the Project Management team to ensure successful project execution.
• Oversee project financial performance including budgets, forecasting, cost control, and margin protection.
• Ensure consistent project planning, scheduling, and resource allocation.
• Drive accountability in contract management, change orders, billing, and cash flow.
• Implement and enforce project management standards, processes, and reporting.
• Monitor KPIs including productivity, margin performance, and schedule adherence.
• Provide coaching and development to Project Managers and support staff.
• Operational Leadership – Field Operations
• Oversee Field Operations General Foremen.
• Ensure projects are executed safely, efficiently, and to quality standards.
• Partner with Safety leadership to reinforce a strong safety culture.
• Ensure proper equipment utilization.
• Improve field productivity and operational efficiency.
• Address operational challenges in real-time to prevent project delays or cost overruns.
• Ensure alignment between field execution and project management expectations.
• Financial and Performance Accountability
• Own operational P&L performance.
• Develop and manage annual budgets and forecasts.
• Monitor gross margin, overhead, and operational efficiency.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to improve profitability.
• Ensure billing accuracy and timely submittals.
• Participate in strategic planning and long-term growth initiatives.
• Leadership and Culture
• Build a culture of accountability, teamwork, and operational discipline.
• Develop leadership bench strength within PM and Field teams.
• Reinforce company standards, processes, and core values.
• Drive alignment between growth commitments and operational capacity.
• Support change management and organizational improvements.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of progressive leadership experience in underground civil, utility, or electrical construction.
• Proven experience with customer relationship development, business development, and leading field/project operations.
• Strong financial acumen including budgeting, forecasting, and cost control.
• Demonstrated ability to drive revenue growth and expand market presence.
• Experience leading cross-functional teams (PMs, Superintendents, Field Crews).
• Deep understanding of underground utilities, civil construction, and electrical infrastructure.
• Understanding of regional markets and key industry members.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and client relationship skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Business, or related field preferred.