We are looking for an experienced Rail Operations Director to supervise a wide range of programmes. You will be responsible for the delivery and overall success of each programme. You will supervise managers and inform management on progress and performance.

A successful Operations Director must have a broad knowledge of programme management principles. They must have a strategic mindset as well as be able to lead and develop their subordinates.

The goal is to ensure every programme will be delivered successfully and add the highest possible value to the organisation.

Essential duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned

• Acts as the Company representative with the client and selected subcontractors during the programme execution.
• Negotiates changes to the scope of work with the client and key subcontractors.
• Collaborates with Business Development to market and secure additional work with client.
• Responsible for following up on instructions and commitments associated with the project.
• Participates in negotiations with regulatory agencies and in public meetings in support of clients.
• Establishes the programme requirements for projects and monitors the draft and final deliverables for adherence to these criteria.
• Plans, directs, supervises, and controls the execution of all business, technical, fiscal, and administrative functions for rail operations related work.
• Assigns responsibility for executing project plans to key subordinates after careful assessment of how to utilise their qualifications and strengths.
• Provides input to performance reviews and development plans for subordinates.
• Mobilises company resources, through liaison with support departments, other offices, or subsidiaries, to create project teams capable of completing effective, quality work.
• Discusses the qualifications required of the key project positions in specific detail with the profit centre and department managers. Collaborates with the office facilities staff to address project space requirements.
• Promotes technical and commercial excellence on the project through application of Quality Assurance processes.
• Monitors and reports to management on the progress of all project activity within the programme, including significant milestones, maintaining current and timely change orders and any conditions, which would affect project cost or schedule.
• Devise evaluation strategies to monitor performance and determine the need for improvements
• Supervise all program and project managers involved to provide feedback and resolve complex problems
• Discover ways to enhance efficiency and productivity of procedures and people
• Apply change, risk and resource management principles when needed
• Read reports prepared by managers to determine progress and issues
• Ensure programme operations and activities adhere to legal guidelines and internal policies
• Keep senior management informed with detailed and accurate reports or presentations
• Inspire and act as a role model to all staff, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment, where the team, learn, develop, and drive increased business results.
• Actively contribute to a continuous improvement culture.

Experience & Skills

• Proven experience as Operations Director or other managerial position
• Thorough understanding of project/programme management techniques and methods
• Excellent Knowledge of performance evaluation techniques and key metrics
• Outstanding knowledge of data analysis, reporting and budgeting
• A business acumen with a strategic ability
• Excellent organisational and leadership skills
• An analytical mindset with great problem-solving abilities
• Excellent communication skills
• BSc/BA diploma in management or a relevant field; MSc/MA is a plus

Desirable Experience & Skills

• Expertise of a wide range of Railway operations and all associated systems and interfaces.
• Experience in different locations and railway contexts around the world.
• Active member of a relevant institution or professional body.