Operation Manager

Job Description – Operations Manager

Operations Management

• Plan, organize, and oversee daily operational activities across research farms, laboratories, field projects, and administrative functions.
• Ensure smooth execution of agricultural, environmental, and sustainability research projects.
• Develop and implement operational policies, procedures, and performance standards.
• Monitor project timelines, resource utilization, and operational efficiency.
• Coordinate activities between research teams, field staff, laboratory personnel, and external stakeholders.

Research & Project Support

• Support researchers and project managers in the implementation of agricultural and environmental studies.
• Ensure availability of equipment, materials, and logistics required for research activities.
• Monitor project progress and ensure operational support is provided to meet research objectives.
• Facilitate collaboration between internal departments and external research partners.

Agricultural Operations

• Supervise field trials, crop management activities, irrigation systems, and agricultural research sites.
• Ensure proper maintenance and operation of farming equipment, greenhouses, nurseries, and experimental plots.
• Monitor implementation of sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation initiatives.
• Oversee procurement and inventory management of agricultural inputs and supplies.

Environmental Operations

• Coordinate environmental monitoring, sampling, and field survey activities.
• Support environmental impact assessments, sustainability projects, biodiversity studies, and climate-related research initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with UAE environmental regulations and sustainability standards.
• Monitor environmental performance indicators and reporting requirements.

Financial & Resource Management

• Prepare and manage operational budgets and expenditures.
• Monitor costs and identify opportunities for operational efficiency and cost reduction.
• Oversee procurement processes and vendor management.
• Ensure effective utilization of company assets, vehicles, equipment, and facilities.

Team Leadership & Human Resources

• Lead and supervise operational, field, laboratory, and support staff.
• Develop workforce plans and ensure adequate staffing for research and operational requirements.
• Conduct performance evaluations and support employee development initiatives.
• Promote a culture of safety, collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with UAE labor laws, environmental regulations, biosafety requirements, and company policies.
• Implement and monitor Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) procedures.
• Conduct risk assessments and ensure corrective actions are implemented.
• Maintain records related to safety, environmental compliance, permits, and certifications.

Stakeholder & Client Relations

• Liaise with government authorities, research institutions, universities, consultants, suppliers, and clients.
• Support audits, inspections, and accreditation processes.
• Represent the company in operational meetings and project coordination activities.

Reporting & Performance Monitoring

• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual operational reports.
• Develop and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
• Present operational performance updates and recommendations to senior management. Maintain accurate operational records and documentation.

Qualifications & Education

• Bachelor's Degree in Agriculture, Environmental Science, Agricultural Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Master's Degree in Agriculture, Environmental Management, Operations Management, or MBA is preferred.

Experience

• Minimum 10+ years of operational management experience.
• At least 5–8 years in agricultural, environmental, research, sustainability, or related sectors. UAE/GCC experience is highly preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Knowledge of agricultural operations, environmental management, and research project support.
• Understanding of UAE environmental regulations and sustainability requirements.
• Budgeting, procurement, and resource management expertise.
• Excellent project management and organizational skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, ERP systems, and project management tools.
• Knowledge of Quality Management Systems (ISO 9001), Environmental Management Systems (ISO 14001), and Occupational Health & Safety standards (ISO 45001) is an advantage.