General Manager

Confidential; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A Confidential Facilities Management Service Provider is seeking a proactive and experienced General Manager to lead operations within a fast-paced environment. The role demands exceptional leadership and stakeholder management skills to optimize service delivery, drive innovation, and enhance client satisfaction. Candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree in Facilities Management or related fields, at least 10 years of operational experience with 5 years in a managerial position, and familiarity with the UAE FM landscape.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years in FM operations with 5 years in managerial role.
• Experience in FM industry in Abu Dhabi or Dubai.
• Fluent in English; Arabic is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute operational strategies aligned with growth objectives.
• Lead the design and implementation of FM service delivery models.
• Manage FM P&L and finances.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder Management

Strategic Thinking

Communication

Financial Acumen

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Facilities Management or related field

Tools

CAFM Software

Job description

The General Manager will and scale the operational backbone of a fast-paced Facilities Management Service Provider. This is a pivotal leadership role responsible for building and optimizing service delivery, operational excellence, and client satisfaction in a challenging, high-pressure environment.

Strategic Leadership:

• Develop and execute operational strategies aligned with the company’s growth objectives.
• Lead the design and implementation of scalable FM service delivery models.
• Identify new investment opportunities that led to revenue diversification and market expansion
• Drive innovation and continuous improvement in service delivery and operational processes.
• Provide expert leadership to facility managers, supervisors, and technical teams.
• Set and achieve KPIs for operational efficiency, sustainability, and client satisfaction.

Team Building & Leadership:

• Recruit, train, and manage a high-performing FM operations team.
• Foster a culture of accountability, agility, and continuous improvement.
• Manage direct reports to deliver comprehensive Facilities Management services to a high standard, including in-house team, specialized service providers and ensure seamless day-to-day FM operations
• Set individual goals and performance reviews.
• Develop a professional development plan for the FM department.
• Develop and implement accommodation policies aligned with organizational and regulatory standards.
• Lead planning for occupancy, capacity management, and future accommodation needs for labor/staff.

Contracts Management:

• Actively participate in the tendering process for service providers, including evaluation, selection, and appointment, ensuring alignment with project requirements and company standards.
• Conduct regular monthly meetings with the client and stakeholders to review performance, address concerns, and ensure overall satisfaction with service delivery.
• Monitor and ensure that all Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and Service Level Agreements (SLAs) set by the client are consistently met or exceeded.
• Identify opportunities for cost optimization and value engineering within contract management, aiming to generate potential savings and enhance profitability for the company.
• Manage and supervise the performance of third-party service providers, ensuring the delivery of high-quality services while focusing on strategic oversight
• Monitor service provider performance to ensure compliance with contractual obligations, KPIs, and industry standards.

Budget & Cost Control:

• Manage FM P&L and finances.
• Monitor cost control and ensure adherence to financial targets.
• Support commercial teams in pricing, proposals, and contract negotiations.

Reporting & Documentation:

• Prepare periodic operational reports on performance metrics, risks, and improvements.
• Maintain proper documentation of inspections, approvals, permits, and compliance records.
• Support internal and external audits by providing the required data and verification.

Technology & Innovation:

• Introduce innovative solutions and technologies to optimize facility management processes and enhance overall service quality.
• Ensure CAFM system is accurately updated and fully utilized.
• Recommend operational enhancements using data insights and FM analytics.

Stakeholder Management

• Build strong relationships with clients, vendors, and government entities.
• Act as the liaison between assets/users and operations teams.
• Coordinate with various group entities such as property management, owner association, hospitality, events etc.
• Ensure high satisfaction levels for residents, tenants, and clients.

Compliance & Safety

• Maintain adherence to Companies operational standards, local regulations, and HSE compliance.
• Lead periodic building inspections and audits; ensure timely rectification of non-conformities.

Ensure adherence to all regulatory and safety standards (AADC, OSHAD, Abu Dhabi Municipality, etc.)

• Bachelor’s Degree in Facilities Management, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 10 years in FM operations, with at least 5 years in managerial role managing real estate, property, or community development.
• Experience in FM industry in Abu Dhabi or Dubai

Experience and Competencies:

• Proven track record in managing large-scale FM contracts and teams.
• Strong understanding of UAE regulatory environment and FM industry standards.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving
• Ability to thrive under pressure and manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Strong financial acumen
• Proficiency in FM software and systems (e.g., CAFM, CMMS)
• Knowledge of sustainability and energy management practices
• Fluent in English; Arabic is a plus
• Team player with strong multitasking abilities
• communication skills (English – mandatory; Arabic is a plus)
• CFM, PMP, HSE certification is advantageous

Working Conditions

• Fast-paced, client-focused environment.
• Business setup phase
• Based in Abu Dhabi with occasional travel to Dubai