Chief Operations Officer (f/m/d)

DB E.C.O. Group offers engineering, consulting, and operations expertise from a single source within the DB Group. DB International Operations (DB IO) as part of the DB E.C.O. Group built on Deutsche Bahn’s strong operational experience and expertise. With the motto of 'Delivering Excellence in Mobility and Transport,' DB IO provides operation and maintenance services for rail mobility solutions outside of Europe. Putting our customers’ needs at the centre of our projects, DB IO operates and maintains rail infrastructure and rolling stock for passenger and freight transport, delivering sustainability, reliability, and cost-efficiency.

Deutsche Bahn International Operations GmbH (DB IO), headquartered in Berlin, is dedicated to acquiring, launching, and managing rail operations and maintenance projects outside Europe.

DB RRTS Operations India Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of DB International Operations, is entrusted with the operation and maintenance of India's groundbreaking regional rapid transit system (RRTS), implemented by the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC). This project encompasses the 82 km Delhi-Meerut corridor, including 16 RRTS and 6 MRTS stations. The first 17-kilometer priority section of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) corridor was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in October 2023. Plans for network extensions into Haryana and Rajasthan are also underway, underscoring the project's national significance.

DB RRTS Operations India is seeking an accomplished and strategic Chief Operations Officer (COO) to lead the operational management of India’s first high-speed regional rail system. This executive role requires exceptional leadership, operational expertise, and a commitment to excellence in service delivery, ensuring the seamless, safe, and efficient functioning of a highly

As COO, you will have overarching responsibility for all operational aspects, including service performance, passenger experience, network optimization, and regulatory compliance. Your leadership will be instrumental in implementing world-class operational strategies, enhancing service reliability, and driving continuous improvement in efficiency and customer satisfaction. Collaborating closely with the Chief Executive Officer and the executive leadership team, you will play a pivotal role in aligning operational priorities with the organization’s strategic objectives while fostering innovation and ensuring the highest standards of safety, sustainability, and stakeholder engagement.

Responsibilities and Tasks in Detail:

• Report directly to the CEO and collaborate with the Managing Director and Chief Maintenance Officer to drive the economic success of DB RRTS Operations by ensuring operational efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with the company’s strategic objectives.
• Oversee and manage the safe and efficient operation of the Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), including train and station operations, while continuously optimizing processes to enhance safety, service quality, and cost efficiency.
• Hold overall responsibility for the development, implementation, and execution of the Safety Management System (SMS), ensuring strict adherence to regulatory requirements, industry best practices, and internal safety protocols to achieve operational excellence.
• Ensure the strategic planning and availability of all necessary personnel and infrastructure resources while maximizing operational efficiency through the optimal utilization of assets, workforce, and station facilities.
• Drive the achievement of all operational Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and internal targets by implementing data-driven decision-making, continuous process improvements, and proactive risk mitigation strategies.
• Lead, inspire, and develop high-performing operational teams, fostering a culture of excellence, employee engagement, and accountability while ensuring strict adherence to company policies, guidelines, and industry standards.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Transport, Mechanics, Electronics, Electrical, or Civil Engineering, providing a strong technical foundation combined with strategic leadership capabilities. With over 15 years of professional experience in rail-based systems, the candidate has demonstrated expertise in managing complex rail operations, including train, station, and control centre management.

A proven track record in senior leadership roles, particularly within high-speed rail or metro systems, showcases the candidate’s ability to optimize operational performance, drive safety and efficiency, and navigate the challenges of a dynamic transportation environment. Their extensive knowledge across all aspects of rail engineering, along with advanced problem-solving and negotiation skills, uniquely qualifies them to lead operations, ensure compliance, and contribute to the continued growth and success of DB RRTS operations in India.

• Possess a Master's or Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Transport, Mechanics, Electronics, Electrical, or Civil Engineering, complemented by at least 15 years of professional experience in management.
• Demonstrate strong leadership capabilities, strategic orientation, and people management skills, with a proven track record of driving operational success in complex transportation environments.
• Exhibit comprehensive knowledge across all facets of rail engineering and maintenance, with at least 5 years of experience as a Chief Operations Officer (COO) or in a similar executive role within metro or rail projects operating at speeds of 150 km/h or higher.
• Possess a diverse skill set spanning multiple disciplines, including advanced analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities, and the capability to train and mentor technicians to enhance team competency.
• Exhibit advanced proficiency in both written and spoken English, with knowledge in Hindi considered an asset, alongside strong negotiation skills and a meticulous attention to detail in all operational and strategic endeavours.
• Demonstrate a commitment to relocate to New Delhi, ensuring consistent leadership presence and direct oversight of DB RRTS operations in India.