Vice President of Operations

VenorTalent; Fredericton; On-site; CAD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading utility service provider is seeking a Vice President of Operations in Fredericton, NB. This role involves strategic leadership, overseeing emergency response operations, and managing fleet logistics. Ideal candidates have extensive experience in utility operations and possess strong communication and crisis management skills. Bilingualism is an asset. Join a diverse and inclusive team dedicated to operational excellence.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in utility operations or related industry.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale field operations and fleet logistics.
• Ability to pivot between field-level engagement and executive communication.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic operational leadership across all service territories.
• Lead emergency response operations and ensure ICS alignment.
• Oversee management and maintenance of fleet vehicles.

Skills

Leadership in utility operations

Crisis management skills

Communication skills

Negotiation skills

Understanding of ICS protocols

Bilingualism (English/French)

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Emergency Management, Business Administration

Master’s degree

Job description

Venor is proud to partner with Holland Power Services (HPS), a subsidiary of Alectra Inc., in their search for a Vice President of Operations to join their team in Fredericton, NB.

A recognized leader in emergency utility services across North America, Holland Power Services specializes in power restoration and utility construction. With operations spanning New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, and New England, HPS is known for its rapid deployment capabilities, unwavering commitment to safety, and exceptional service to both communities and utility clients during storm response and day-to-day operations.

As a key senior member of the Executive Leadership Team, the Vice President of Operations will play a pivotal role in shaping the company’s strategic direction. This individual will provide the operational insight and cross-functional collaboration necessary to drive initiatives that strengthen HPS’s competitive position and ensure sustainable, long-term success.

The VP of Operations will oversee eight divisions, approximately 95% of company assets, including a fleet of ~800 vehicles and heavy equipment. They will play a pivotal role in improving fleet maintenance and driving ERP adoption to strengthen operational consistency and financial oversight.

What you’ll be doing:

• Provide strategic operational leadership, overseeing all field operations, storm readiness, and restoration crews across all service territories.
• Lead the company’s emergency response operations, serving as Incident Commander during major events and ensuring alignment with ICS protocols.
• Direct the management, maintenance, and readiness of the company’s fleet of vehicles and heavy equipment.
• Plan and execute large-scale crew mobilization and logistics for rapid response to storm events across North America.
• Champion ERP system implementation and adoption for operational divisions to enhance divisional budget management and reporting.
• Oversee the development and implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) across all operational divisions to ensure consistency and compliance.
• Manage operational budgets, vendor contracts, and resource allocation to identify efficiencies and cost-saving opportunities.
• Ensure early field presence during major deployments, building trust and credibility with crews.
• Recruit, mentor, and develop operations managers and field supervisors, promoting a culture of safety and continuous improvement.
• Serve as a key liaison with utility partners, government agencies, and emergency services, representing HPS at industry events.
• Engage directly with customers, ensuring operational decisions reflect a client-centered approach while maintaining strong workforce relationships.

What we are looking for:

• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in utility operations, emergency response, or large-scale infrastructure services, or related industry.
• A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Emergency Management, Business Administration, or a related field; a Master’s degree is a strong asset.
• A proven track record in managing large-scale field operations, fleet logistics, and crew mobilization is a strong asset.
• Experience leading in austere, dispersed, and high-duress environments is a strong asset.
• An understanding of the Incident Command System (ICS) structure, emergency management protocols, and power restoration operations.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and crisis management skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to pivot seamlessly between field-level engagement, strategic planning, and executive/board-level communications
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a focus on revenue generation and operational efficiency.
• Willingness to travel extensively (50–60 nights annually, plus storm activations) and work in severe weather conditions.
• Bilingualism (English/French) is a strong asset.
  

At Venor and Holland Power Services, we embrace a culture of belonging in the workplace. No matter who you are, where you’re from, how you think, what you believe in, or who you love, we welcome your application. We all come from different backgrounds and different walks of life, bringing in unique perspectives and experiences. We encourage applications from 2SLGBTQ+, Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC), women, newcomers to Canada, and people with disabilities.