Operations Director

Operations Director

Where Greatness Grows

The greatest achievements in history are borne from the greatness within people – where human potential meets vision, and passion fuels evolution. Unlocking this potential is the most important thing we do at Bird.

As a leader in Canadian construction for over 100 years, the impact of our team is etched deeply within the core of our legacy. Beyond Bird, this impact is felt in the fundamental aspects of our everyday lives. From the critical infrastructure we depend on, to the energy and resources that keep us moving - we are powering our communities and shaping Canada’s skylines coast-to-coast. Entrenched in the foundation of a culture built more than a century ago is an enduring quest to reimagine what is possible. Our impact is greater than ever, and we are looking for those who seek to redefine their story.

We are a dynamic team of over 5,000 with a range of professions, backgrounds, and areas of expertise. This breadth of diversity in people and opportunities is one of greatest aspects of building your career with Bird. Every trajectory looks different. At Bird, you hold the pen, and you write your story. As you unlock your potential, you are surrounded by a team that supports you every step of the way.

Be a part of our team, where we pride ourselves on the quality of our work and the way we treat each other and our partners. You will build a career and long-lasting relationships based on respect, collaboration, and a solution-focused mindset. Bird is a place where you will unlock your potential and achieve your goals.

The Ottawa Buildings branch is experiencing rapid expansion, with a significant backlog over the next three years. To support this growth trajectory, the branch is seeking a dynamic and results-driven Operations Manager to lead the scale-up of operations and drive execution excellence.

This is a full time, permanent position based in the Ottawa, ON office.

Please note that this position requires the successful candidate to obtain and maintain a Secret-level security clearance.

What You Will Be Working On

• Reporting to the Ottawa Buildings General Manager

• Recruit & Build the Core Team - Hire key roles and develop onboarding and training programs. Complete ongoing performance management and development of staff through coaching and mentoring.

• Establish Operational Systems & Processes - Set up workflows for procurement, scheduling, safety, and reporting with ongoing refinements and continuous improvement.

• Oversee Project Execution - Monitor schedules, budgets, technical issues, change management, quality, and HSSE across all active job sites including regular on-site project visits.

• Manage Designer & Subcontractor Relationships - Source reliable consultants, subcontractors, and suppliers, manage overarching relationships across multiple projects for the branch

• Implement Financial Controls - Oversee job costing, quarterly P&L, and branch cash flow and expenses

• Support Procurement - Collaborate with the procurement team to align operations with incoming work, prepare operational input for bids and proposals.

• Commercial Management –Review prime contracts and subcontracts.Manage any insurance, lien, or claim issues and drive to closure.Monitor ongoing risk management strategies with the GM.

• Scale Infrastructure - Plan for equipment, office space, and technology needs as the branch grows.

• Foster a Strong Culture - Promote a safety-first, performance-driven, and collaborative work environment - lead by example and support team development.

What We Are Looking For

• People

• Ability to recruit, train, and lead cross-functional teams

• Strong delegation and performance management skills

• Commitment to an inclusive and respectful workplace that values diversity

• Execution

• 15+yrs experience in construction with 10+ in a leadership role

• Experience executing major ICI buildings construction projects >$100M

• Understanding of construction methods and scheduling.

• Familiarity with project delivery models (CM, Design-Build, IPD etc.)

• Proficiency in job costing, forecasting, and financial reporting

• Approach

• Health, safety, security, and environment focused

• Clear and effective communicator with ability to build strong relationships with field crews, executives, subtrades & consultants, and clients

• Strong analytical skills with detail-oriented documentation and reporting abilities

• Skills in process and workflow creation and management

• Ability to work collaboratively with a positive attitude

• Sense of urgency while being comfortable in a fast-paced, evolving environment with shifting priorities

• Quick decision-maker under pressure; adept at resolving site issues and delays

Please note: Artificial Intelligence will not be used in the screening process for this role.

We Put Safety First

A healthy and safe work environment is non-negotiable. We build a culture of operational and psychological safety through engagement, learning and leadership.

We Lead With Honesty

We speak and act with integrity, clarity and care so people can trust our word and our work. Being honest means we can deliver the best outcomes and consistent results.

We Are Stronger Together

Success is a team effort. Our inclusive workplace enables our combined expertise, humility and creativity to unlock our greater potential.

We Are Driven To Do Great Work

We built our name on quality. We have a passion for excellence in our work and relationships that honours our businesses and our industry.

We Create Opportunity

Rooted in a solid foundation, we adapt and grow to face the future. We are committed to elevating each other to chart the best path forward in an evolving world.

Bird is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I). This is a core part of our culture and guides our actions and strategic priorities. We strive to create an inclusive environment where every employee can thrive and share their unique perspectives and talents. Our ongoing commitments focus on addressing inequities and promoting a better understanding of diversity to build an inclusive and fair culture. We recognize that diverse teams are more knowledgeable, perform better, and achieve greater success. As such, we are dedicated to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and creating opportunities for all employees to grow and succeed.