Operations & Program Delivery Manager

An exciting opportunity has become available for an Operations & Program Delivery Manager to join Downer's Energy & Utilities business, leading major water programs across Victoria and driving operational excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth.

The opportunity

• Reporting to the General Manager - Water VIC/NSW, the Victorian Water Operations Manager plays a critical leadership role in driving operational performance across Downer's Water business. Based in Victoria, you'll lead operational teams delivering complex water infrastructure programs and contracts, ensuring exceptional outcomes across safety, commercial performance, project delivery, and client satisfaction.

• This role is focused on building a high-performing operational culture, strengthening self-delivery capability, enhancing productivity through innovation and technology, and developing future leaders across the business. Working closely with contract managers, delivery teams, and key water authority clients, you'll contribute directly to the continued growth and success of Downer's Water portfolio.

What you’ll do

• Lead operational teams to deliver projects and programs safely, efficiently, and to contractual performance targets.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives that enhance productivity, systems, and delivery outcomes.
• Build leadership capability through coaching, mentoring, and development of Contract Managers and frontline leaders.
• Partner with commercial and finance teams to improve profitability, forecasting accuracy, and risk management.
• Foster strong client relationships while identifying opportunities to grow revenue and expand service offerings.

What we offer

• Competitive remuneration with a significant ASX-listed company
• Structured career paths with the opportunity to work in different areas of the Utilities business, supported by a robust Commercial Operating Model
• A suite of health and wellness benefits and initiatives, including EAP Beyond Blue
• Retail discounts with major retailers, Dell, Good Guys, Samsung, Specsavers & ANZ
• We are a Tier 1 ASX listed company with in-house capabilities that far exceed traditional contractor environments

What we’re looking for

• Proven experience leading operations within utilities, infrastructure, construction, or major program delivery environments.
• Tertiary qualification in Engineering, Project Management, Business or related discipline (desirable).
• Strong commercial and financial acumen with the ability to drive profitability and operational performance.
• Demonstrated success leading large teams and developing leadership capability across multiple disciplines.
• Expertise in stakeholder engagement, client relationship management, and contract performance.
• Water industry experience, coupled with a continuous improvement mindset and commitment to Zero Harm.

About Energy & Utilities

Downer's Energy & Utilities business unit is an integrated trans-Tasman team, providing services and solutions that connect communities to essential networks and infrastructure. We design, build, operate and maintain today's critical assets and networks, delivering complete services across the water, electricity, telecommunications, industrial and power generation sectors. Our expertise spans in-house technical smarts, specialist engineering, integrated OEM partners, and dedicated crews of qualified tradespeople. Downer Group is an employer that acknowledges and embraces the importance of our people's diverse experiences, talents, and cultures. As an inclusive employer, we welcome applications from everyone.

How to apply

Click "Apply" to start your application. We look forward to hearing from you! Downer does not accept unsolicited resumes, fees, or costs from recruitment agencies, search firms, or third parties. Candidates are welcome to submit their applications via the advertisement.