Chief Operating Officer (Construction)

About the Role

• We are seeking an experienced, results-driven Chief Operating Officer COO to provide strategic and operational leadership to a fast-growing construction company. The successful candidate will oversee day-to-day business operations, ensure excellence in project delivery, drive operational efficiency, and support the company’s long-term growth strategy.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and oversee the company’s daily operations across construction projects, engineering, procurement, and support functions.
• Develop and execute operational strategies aligned with the organisation’s business objectives.
• Ensure projects are delivered safely, on schedule, within budget, and in compliance with contractual and regulatory requirements.
• Establish and monitor operational KPIs to improve efficiency, profitability, and project performance.
• Collaborate closely with the Managing Director/CEO and executive leadership team to drive business growth and strategic initiatives.
• Oversee project planning, resource allocation, budgeting, and risk management.
• Ensure compliance with all HSE, quality assurance, and statutory regulations.
• Drive continuous process improvement and operational excellence across the organisation.
• Build, mentor, and lead high-performing multidisciplinary teams.
• Strengthen relationships with clients, consultants, contractors, government agencies, and other key stakeholders.
• Support business development efforts by contributing to tender reviews, project feasibility, and strategic partnerships.
• Monitor financial performance, cost control measures, and operational budgets.
• Identify operational risks and implement mitigation strategies to protect business performance.
• Prepare and present operational reports to the Board and executive management.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Building Technology, Quantity Surveying, or a related discipline.
• A Master’s degree MBA or related postgraduate qualification is an added advantage.
• Minimum of 12–15 years of progressive experience within the construction industry, with at least 5 years in a senior executive or leadership role.
• Proven experience managing multiple large-scale construction projects simultaneously.
• Strong knowledge of project management methodologies, contract administration, procurement, and construction operations.
• Excellent commercial, financial, and business management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead large teams and manage organisational change.
• Strong negotiation, stakeholder management, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and strategic thinking.

Preferred Experience:

• Experience working with indigenous or multinational construction companies.
• Strong understanding of Nigerian construction regulations, building standards, and HSE requirements.
• Experience overseeing residential, commercial, industrial, or infrastructure projects.