COO (Metallurgy / strategic development / operations) – Middle East

Gatesource Hr; Dubai; On-site; AED 550,000 - 919,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading industrial conglomerate is seeking a dynamic COO for their Metallurgy Division to oversee operations across multiple plants globally. This pivotal role combines strategic leadership with hands-on management, ensuring operational excellence and profitability. The ideal candidate will have over 15 years of experience in metallurgy or mining, with strong skills in business development and team management. A commitment to safety and sustainability is essential. The position is based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates and involves extensive international travel.

Qualifications

• 15+ years in senior operational roles within metallurgy, mining, or heavy industrial sectors.
• Strong track record in business development, mergers, and acquisitions.
• Experience managing multi-site, multi-country operations.

Responsibilities

• Manage all metallurgical plants across continents for optimal performance.
• Lead strategic planning in alignment with the Group’s growth objectives.
• Build and mentor a high-performing global operations team.

Skills

Operational excellence

Business development

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Negotiation

Education

Advanced degree in Metallurgical Engineering

MBA

Job description

COO (Metallurgy / strategic development / operations) – Middle East

Dubai, United Arab Emirates | Posted on 09/19/2025

Job Description

Our client is a rapidly growing international industrial and mining conglomerate with a diverse portfolio in metals, mining, and renewable energy. The metallurgy division operates multiple plants worldwide, producing high‑demand commodities including base metals. They are seeking a dynamic, business‑oriented COO to lead operational excellence, business development, and strategic acquisitions across continents.

Based in the Middle‑East region, the COO – Metallurgy Division will oversee all operational aspects of multiple metallurgical plants globally, ensuring efficiency, safety, sustainability, and profitability. The role combines strategic leadership with hands‑on operational management, focusing on growth initiatives, acquisitions, and business development opportunities.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership:

• Manage all metallurgical plants across continents, ensuring optimal operational performance, cost efficiency, and safety compliance.
• Implement and monitor operational KPIs, performance metrics, and continuous improvement programs.
• Ensure adherence to environmental, health, and safety standards across all operations.
• Optimize production processes, energy utilization, and resource allocation to maximize profitability.

Business Development & Strategy:

• Lead strategic planning for the metallurgy division in alignment with the Group’s growth objectives.
• Identify, evaluate, and execute new business opportunities, joint ventures, and acquisitions in the metals and mining sectors.
• Foster partnerships with global stakeholders, suppliers, and customers to expand market presence.
• Develop and implement strategies to strengthen supply chain and vertically integrated operations.

Leadership & Team Management:

• Build, mentor, and lead a high‑performing global operations and business development team.
• Promote a culture of excellence, accountability, and innovation across all plants and regions.
• Collaborate closely with other divisions, including finance, logistics, and corporate development.

Requirements

• Proven experience (15+ years) in senior operational roles within metallurgy, mining, or heavy industrial sectors.
• Strong track record in business development, mergers, acquisitions, and international project execution.
• Experience managing multi‑site, multi‑country operations across continents.
• Excellent strategic, financial, and operational acumen.
• Strong leadership, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Advanced degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Mining, Industrial Engineering, and MBA preferred.
• Willingness to travel extensively internationally.
• Global operational leadership
• Business growth and acquisition expertise
• Cross‑cultural team management
• Operational excellence and process optimization