Job Title: Head of Retrofit Operations (Senior Operations Manager)
Overview
Clerkin Connect is recruiting on behalf of a leading organisation in the retrofit and energy efficiency sector for a senior leadership appointment.
This is a Head of / Senior Projects leadership role, reporting directly to the Managing Director and operating as a key member of the Senior Leadership Team.
The role holds strategic responsibility for the Project Management function, leading the delivery of large-scale retrofit programmes across residential and non-residential buildings. You will provide direction, governance, and performance oversight across multiple programmes, contractors, and stakeholders.
The successful candidate will combine strong programme delivery leadership with deep sector knowledge, ensuring projects are delivered to the highest standards of quality, safety, customer satisfaction, and regulatory compliance, while driving continuous improvement, operational efficiency, and sustainable business growth.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Team Oversight
Provide overall leadership to the Project Management Team, ensuring retrofit projects are delivered in line with company strategy, programme requirements, and regulatory standards.
Work closely with senior leadership to report on programme performance, resource requirements, and operational risks.
Monitor and evaluate Project Managers' performance against agreed KPIs and strategic objectives.
Mentor, coach, and develop Project Managers, building capability, consistency, and resilience across the team.
Foster a strong culture of safety, quality, customer service, and continuous improvement.
Programme & Contractor Management
Maintain oversight of all retrofit programmes, ensuring effective planning, execution, and close-out.
Oversee contractor management processes including onboarding, work allocation, performance management, and corrective actions where required.
Ensure effective management of defects, snags, and reworks to agreed quality standards.
Review and approve contractor payment submissions prior to sign-off.
Ensure robust governance and accurate record-keeping across customer, contractor, and programme data.
Quality, Compliance & Health & Safety
Ensure full compliance with relevant retrofit schemes, building regulations, and technical standards.
Lead adherence to ISO-certified management systems, including Quality, Environmental, and Health & Safety standards.
Take senior responsibility for health and safety leadership, ensuring risks are identified, escalated, and addressed in a timely manner.
Promote a proactive approach to compliance, audits, and corrective actions.
Communication & Stakeholder Engagement
Act as the key link between the Project Management Team, senior leadership, and other internal functions.
Report on programme performance, risks, and opportunities at leadership and organisational meetings.
Build and maintain strong working relationships with clients, contractors, surveyors, housing bodies, and programme partners.
Communicate complex or sensitive issues clearly, professionally, and constructively.
Performance & Continuous Improvement
Monitor programme and organisational targets, ensuring delivery teams contribute to agreed KPIs.
Identify resourcing gaps and operational risks, proposing practical and scalable solutions.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives to streamline processes and embed best practice.
Support business growth through input into tender preparation, pricing strategies, and mobilisation of new programmes.
Contribute to strategic planning, resource forecasting, and team development for future programmes.
Governance & Operational Controls
Ensure strong reporting, governance, and information management disciplines are embedded across the Project Management Team.
Ensure compliance with driving for work and road safety policies across operational teams.
Candidate Profile
Relevant qualification in Construction, Engineering, Business, or a related discipline (strong management experience essential).
Proven experience leading and developing teams within construction, retrofit, or a related regulated sector.
Experience managing both domestic and commercial projects, including commercial values up to €5m.
Strong knowledge of retrofit schemes, technical standards, and building regulations.
Demonstrated ability to manage contractors and complex programme delivery.
Strong commercial awareness and understanding of operational performance drivers.
Excellent organisational, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
Confident working with senior leadership and external partners.
Proficient in MS Office and modern project management systems.
A proactive, solutions-focused mindset with a strong commitment to continuous improvement.
Values-led approach with a clear focus on safety, quality, sustainability, and customer service.
Why Apply
This is an opportunity to take on a senior leadership role within one of the country's leading retrofit delivery companies, offering real influence over programme performance, team development, and future growth.