Director of Operations

The Sutherland Group of Companies; Nelson; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The Sutherland Group of Companies is looking for a Director of Operations with extensive experience in the Heavy Equipment industry. This senior leadership role entails managing strategic projects across civil, marine, road-building, and drilling sectors, ensuring operational excellence and team development. Join a company committed to innovation and the success of its employees through comprehensive benefits and leadership opportunities.

Benefits

Pension Program with matching contributions

Extended health benefits plan

Employee Family Assistance Program

Qualifications

• 8+ years experience in Heavy Equipment industry including 5 in supervisory role.
• Proficient in contract administration and project coordination.
• Experience in regulated industries and with CRM systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage strategic projects across operational divisions.
• Oversee safety performance and ensure alignment with company's core values.
• Develop organizational goals and provide mentorship to team members.

Skills

Project management

Communication

Organization

Leadership

Detail-oriented

Education

PMP certification

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

AutoCAD

Job description

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

We are currently seeking a Director of Operations to join our growing Sutherland Group team, based in either our Salmo or Nelson locations. This is a senior leadership opportunity for an individual with extensive, hands-on experience in the Heavy Equipment industry, which is absolutely essential for success in this role.

As Director of Operations, you will be responsible for leading and managing a pipeline of strategic projects developed by our ownership and sales teams. Your role will be to bring these initiatives to life by coordinating execution across four operational divisions, ensuring each team is aligned and delivering with excellence.

You will oversee the integrated operations of Sutherland Group companies, collaborating with internal teams and strategic external partners to support project delivery across civil, marine, road-building, and drilling/blasting sectors. This role demands a leader who can plan, execute, and inspire, while driving continuous improvement across operations.

Experience in the Heavy Equipment industry and management is not just preferred — it's imperative. We're looking for someone who understands the complexities, challenges, and culture of this industry and can apply that insight to lead our people and projects forward.

The Sutherland Group values more than simply providing industry-renowned services to our clients. We prioritize the happiness, success, and growth of our team members and community. Join us in our commitment to elevate and innovate in the Forestry, Heavy Duty Repair, Transportation, Drilling & Blasting, and Marine Services industries.

POSITION BENEFITS

• Opportunity to lead operations while mentoring and developing your team by identifying training needs, facilitating growth opportunities, and fostering a supportive environment that motivates individuals to excel and strengthens the Sutherland Group's industry leadership.
• A professional and respectful environment.
• As a member of the Sutherland Group, we are proud to serve not only our loyal clients but also our partner companies, guaranteeing work for our industry-leading teams.

SUTHERLAND GROUP BENEFITS

We are pleased to offer the following benefits to all Sutherland Group team members:

• Pension Program with matching contributions up to 100%, starting at 3%, increasing in graduated increments, and topping out at 5% after 8 years.
• Extended health benefits plan
• Confidential Employee Family Assistance Program
• Health & Safety policies and programs

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Ensure all actions align with Sutherland Group Enterprise's Core Values: Curious and Adaptable, Trustworthy, Humbly Confident, Better Together, and Make it Happen.
• Monitor and promote safety performance within your portfolio, contributing to a Safety First culture.
• Develop and execute organizational goals and strategies aligned with the company's long-term vision.
• Provide strategic direction, leadership, and mentorship to managers and team members, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment through training, feedback, and recognition.
• Oversee daily operations, identify opportunities for improvement, drive efficiency, and implement financial and administrative controls.
• Identify training and development needs for leaders within your portfolio.
• Ensure departmental decisions and project plans (staffing, development, organization, etc.) align with the organization's business plan and vision.
• Manage the full cycle of RFP processes.
• Maintain service expectations on projects, including customer meetings and target achievement.

• Monitor revenues, budgets, and equipment efficiency; provide weekly scorecard data.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing to drive business growth.
• Establish clear metrics, track goals, and promote ownership and accountability within your team.
• Implement policies and procedures as needed.
• Continuously recruit to meet operational needs and expand the division's skill set.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

We expect you to bring the following:

• At least 8 years of experience in the Heavy Equipment industry, including 5 years in a supervisory role.
• Project management experience, coordinating multiple crews or contractors.
• Proven contract administration skills and attention to detail.
• Experience managing projects in regulated industries (e.g., Fortis/Hydro).
• Prior P&L responsibility.
• Knowledge of provincial employment and occupational safety legislation.
• Discretion and tact in dealing with employees, managers, and authorities.
• Experience with CRM systems for project pipeline management.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Process-driven with experience in technical writing and developing procedures.
• Strong organizational and management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Word and Excel.
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD or similar software.
• PMP certification is preferred.

JOIN THE TEAM

If you believe you're a good fit, we look forward to your application. Thank you for considering a career with us.

Visit our website to learn more about The Sutherland Group.

A SUTHERLAND GROUP COMPANY

The Sutherland Group of Companies is a specialized network of heavy industry experts, providing services from equipment and logistics to people and safety, serving high-performing clients in civil, forestry, transportation, and marine industries with complex supply chain solutions.

For nearly 30 years, we have positioned ourselves as a leader in heavy industry, prioritizing our team members' success through a diversified workplace, competitive benefits, training, and growth opportunities.