Operations Manager

ABOUT COLAS

COLAS, a subsidiary of the BOUYGUES Group, specializes in the design, construction and maintenance of transport infrastructure, delivered in a responsible manner. Present in more than 50 countries across five continents, through a network of 2,000 construction units and 3,500 materials production units, Colas employs 64,000 people committed to connecting people and facilitating exchanges in the world of today and tomorrow.

COLAS’ ambition is to become the world leader in innovative and responsible mobility solutions. In 2025, COLAS generated €16 billion in revenue, 59% of which came from international operations.

The EMEA Division (Europe–Middle East & Africa) currently employs 13,000 people across 26 countries.

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

The Operations Manager for Chile is responsible for leading, planning, coordinating and controlling the operational execution of the company’s construction projects, ensuring the achievement of schedule, cost, quality, safety, sustainability and profitability objectives while optimizing human, technical and financial resources.

The role also plays a key part in translating the company’s strategy into tangible operational results, driving operational excellence, developing teams and ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction.

Location: San Diego, Chile, with possibilities of traveling in the country frecuently

Reporting to: General Manager, Chile

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

• Strategic Leadership & Business Development: Contribute to the implementation of the company’s medium- and long-term strategy, define operational objectives and support business development initiatives in line with market opportunities, company capabilities and business continuity.
• Operational & Financial Performance: Oversee operational performance, contribute to the annual budgeting process, monitor financial objectives and ensure reliable reporting and effective coordination of support functions.
• Health, Safety, Quality & Compliance: Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, Group policies and internal standards, particularly regarding health, safety, environmental protection, quality, compliance and business ethics. Promote a strong safety and risk-prevention culture and lead continuous improvement initiatives.
• Client & Stakeholder Management: Represent the company with clients, public authorities, professional associations and other key stakeholders. Build and maintain strong strategic relationships and ensure the effective management of contractual commitments, risks, claims and contract amendments.
• Market & Risk Management: Maintain a strategic overview of the business environment, anticipate market developments, identify risks and opportunities, and contribute to the organization’s continuous adaptation to market challenges and opportunities.
• People Leadership & Development: Lead multidisciplinary teams, set objectives, monitor performance, develop internal talent and succession plans, and foster a high-performance culture focused on employee development and business results.
• Group Collaboration & Representation: Actively participate in corporate and Group meetings, contribute to technical and professional development activities, and foster collaboration and networking across the COLAS Group.
• Confidentiality & Professional Integrity: Ensure the highest standards of confidentiality, data protection, discretion and professional integrity in the management of company, employee and business information.

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

TECHNICAL EXPERTISE

• Strong knowledge of road construction, asphalt production and pavement design.
• Experience in project, production and resource management.
• Knowledge of quality, health & safety and environmental standards (ISO 9000, 14000 and 45000).
• Strong understanding of contract, budget and financial management.
• Ability to monitor operational performance and drive continuous improvement.
• Good understanding of technical trends and developments.
• Intermediate level of spoken and written English preferred.

LEADERSHIP & SOFT SKILLS

• Strong leadership, team management and decision-making skills.
• Strategic vision and business acumen.
• Strong customer and stakeholder management skills.
• Proactive, entrepreneurial and results-oriented mindset.
• Ability to translate corporate objectives into effective local actions.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering or a related field. A Master’s degree/MBA or postgraduate qualification in Project or Contract Management would be an advantage.
• At least 15 years of experience in road construction or infrastructure projects, including 8 years in leadership and team management roles.
• Proven experience managing multiple projects and operations simultaneously.
• Solid experience in road infrastructure, civil works and/or concession projects.