Operations Manager

Surbana Jurong Group • Toronto, ON

32d • Hybrid

About The Position

We’re looking for an experienced Operations Manager to lead and optimize operations across our Canadian studios. You’ll drive consistent project delivery standards, improve commercial performance, and enable our design teams to work efficiently at scale. This role partners with Practice Leadership, Finance, HR, and Project Principals to implement a unified national operating model focused on accountability and predictable outcomes.

Requirements

• 15+ years in operations leadership within architecture, design consulting, or AEC.
• Strong knowledge of project lifecycle, financial controls, and risk management.
• Proven success implementing structure in complex, multi-office environments.
• Expertise with ERP/project management tools (Deltek preferred).
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Background in architecture or engineering.
• Experience in firms with 100–300 employees and multiple offices.
• Familiarity with RAIC/AIBC/OAA standards and contract types.

Responsibilities

• Lead operations for Canada across two studios, ensuring alignment with global and regional strategy.
• Establish a consistent national framework for project initiation, budgeting, scheduling, and reporting.
• Create and enforce disciplined operational standards across all project teams.
• Monitor operational performance across all active projects, identifying risks and intervening early with Project Principals.
• Implement project controls for scope management, change orders, fee tracking, resource allocation, and risk mitigation.
• Lead monthly project health reviews and quarterly business performance reviews.
• Diagnose operational inefficiencies and introduce clear, repeatable workflows.
• Develop and roll out standardized SOPs for project delivery, documentation, QA/QC, and financial controls.
• Drive adoption of operational tools and platforms (e.g., Deltek Vision/Vantagepoint, resource planning systems).
• Partner with Finance to improve revenue forecasting, utilization, WIP/AR management, and margin performance.
• Support project teams in developing accurate proposals, fee structures, and work plans.
• Ensure commercial discipline in contract reviews, negotiations, and risk assessment.
• Promote a culture of accountability, operational discipline, and continuous improvement.
• Mentor Project Managers and emerging leaders to develop operational capability within the studios.
• Foster collaboration across studios and disciplines.
• Strengthen adherence to regulatory requirements, insurance standards, and internal governance.
• Implement robust QA/QC processes to reduce operational and contractual risk.
• Support internal audits, client compliance processes, and risk reviews.

Benefits

• Hybrid work arrangements with a combination of working in the Toronto Studio and remotely.
• Competitive salary based on experience and industry standards.
• An excellent employer paid Extended Health & Dental Benefit, Life, and AD&D.
• Employee Wellness Program.
• Referral bonus program.
• Company's perks/discounts (i.e Goodlife, perkopolis etc.).
• Continuous learning environment (i.e. lunch & learn) where professional development and career progression is encouraged.
• Work within a dynamic, driven, high-achieving, close-knit, and fun-loving team.
• Culture of Inclusion and Belonging.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed