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Head of Operations (COO)

AQ Global General Trading

Job Type

Full-time

Work Type

On-Site

Location

Kuwait, Kuwait

Experience

12 - 25 years

The Head of Operations (COO) is responsible for driving operational excellence and profitability across the group’s business verticals — including Construction, Equipment & Vehicle Leasing, Workshops, and Carpentry Works. The role involves strategic planning, performance management, resource optimization, and the seamless coordination of cross-divisional operations to ensure efficiency, quality, and sustainable growth.

The ideal candidate is a results-driven leader with a strong background in construction project management, equipment operations, fleet logistics, and industrial workshop management, capable of transforming strategy into execution and building systems that scale.

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Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership & Execution

• Lead the overall operational strategy for all business divisions — ensuring alignment with the company’s vision and growth goals.

• Translate strategic objectives into actionable operational plans, budgets, and performance metrics.

• Identify synergies across divisions (Construction, Leasing, Workshops, Carpentry) to improve resource utilization and profitability.

• Oversee execution of key projects and ensure on-time, on-budget, and quality delivery.

• Develop business continuity and risk management frameworks across all operations.

2. Operations Oversight

• Oversee daily operations of multiple divisions:

o Construction: Project planning, scheduling, manpower allocation, site management, subcontractor performance, and safety.

o Equipment & Vehicle Leasing: Fleet utilization, rental contracts, dispatch planning, maintenance, and customer satisfaction.

o Workshops: Technical maintenance, preventive service programs, spare parts management, and compliance.

o Carpentry & Fabrication: Job scheduling, production planning, material control, and craftsmanship quality.

• Standardize operating procedures (SOPs) and ensure compliance across all business units.

• Implement technology-driven systems (ERP, fleet management, and project dashboards) for transparency and performance tracking.

3. Financial & Performance Management

• Manage operational budgets, cost control, and P&L accountability for all divisions.

• Optimize asset utilization and ROI from machinery, vehicles, and workforce.

• Conduct data-driven performance reviews and implement continuous improvement initiatives.

• Work closely with Finance and Procurement to align expenditure with approved budgets and project forecasts.

4. People Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and empower divisional managers (Construction, Workshop, Leasing, Carpentry) to deliver excellence.

• Develop a culture of accountability, innovation, and collaboration across all teams.

• Support HR in talent acquisition, training, and performance appraisals for operations teams.

• Promote workplace safety, staff welfare, and adherence to labor and regulatory standards.

5. Client & Stakeholder Relations

• Build strong relationships with clients, vendors, and government entities to ensure smooth project and operational execution.

• Serve as a key escalation point for major operational issues and client concerns.

• Support the CEO in business development and new project evaluation.

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Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil / Mechanical / Industrial Engineering or related technical discipline; MBA preferred.

• Minimum 12–15 years of progressive experience in operations, with at least 5 years in a senior management or COO capacity.

• Proven multi-sector experience across construction, logistics, equipment leasing, and technical services.

• Demonstrated ability to manage cross-functional teams and complex projects simultaneously.

• Strong financial and commercial acumen with P&L accountability.

• Hands-on exposure to ERP and project management systems.

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Core Competencies

• Strategic & analytical thinking

• Leadership & organizational development

• Operational process optimization

• Budgeting, forecasting, and P&L control

• Risk management and problem-solving

• Excellent negotiation and communication skills

• Adaptability to fast-paced, multi-sector environments

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Performance Indicators

• Operational efficiency and cost optimization

• On-time delivery of projects and contracts

• Fleet and equipment utilization rates

• Revenue growth and profitability of divisions

• Safety compliance and zero-incident record

• Employee engagement and retention rates

• Customer satisfaction and repeat business