Director of Operations, Projects

If you thrive in a team-oriented workplace that challenges your skills, to drive your career development, embraces diversity and rewards innovation, with competitive pay and great employee programs, join the GDI Ainsworth team today!

Job Summary

The Director of Operations, Projects is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing the successful delivery of Mechanical, Electrical, HVAC, and Building Automation projects and services within the Dartmouth, Nova Scotia region. This position provides strategic direction, full P&L oversight, and operational leadership to ensure projects are executed safely, efficiently, and in alignment with Ainsworth’s quality standards and business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Display an extensive working knowledge of the HVAC industry standards and practices, including product details and company services offered. Include other disciplines as above.
• Manage Direct Reports to oversee full P&L responsibilities for installations, quality of workmanship, and execution of all Mechanical, Electrical and Building Automation projects and services for GDI Ainsworth.
• Lead respective business units as identified, inclusive of all services, construction & retrofit projects, to ensure that it is completed as per the quote, drawings, specifications, and budget.
• Effectively manage direct reports and team members to ensure team objectives and company goals are being carried out.
• Continuous improvement implementation, including Planning, Execution, Monitoring and Post-Implementation reviews.
• Maintain current knowledge of operational risk and health & safety theories, best practices, approaches, and technologies for incorporation into safety management system elements.
• Foster strong relationships with key stakeholders, including key customers, primary vendors, and industry personnel.
• Change agility and comfort dealing with ambiguity, to complement a highly dynamic workplace with a multitude of internal and external stakeholder clients.
• Ability to lead through both influential and positional authority via a selfless leadership approach.
• Excellent financial acumen with a solid understanding of the income statement, balance sheet, and forecasting practices and provides business cases for capital assets.
• Build and shape the future of the Ainsworth Services team by embracing and leading from a shared vision of excellence in service delivery
• Ensure that all operations achieve high levels of productivity and efficiency by enforcing performance standards and implementing process improvement and best practices.
• Recruit and hire quality individuals who possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience.
• Perform all job functions in a safe and healthful manner, abiding by and in accordance with all applicable Health, Safety and Environmental company policies and government legislation/regulations.
• Collaborate in leadership executive meetings for overall strategic planning and alignment to company goals and objectives.
• Collaborate with peers nationally and in other geographies to leverage technical expertise, ensure client satisfaction and implement best practices.
• Adhere to all company policies and procedures, GDIGC Code of Conduct & Code of Ethics.
• Participate in broader business activities and committees to benefit the overall strategy of the company and initiatives.
• Hold to the Company’s Quality System operating procedures and standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree (Master’s or Engineering degree is considered a plus)
• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience within Mechanical, Electrical, HVAC, Building Automation, or related technical service/project environments
• Demonstrated history of delivering strong financial performance, including P&L management, forecasting, and margin optimization
• Proven ability to grow business lines by strengthening existing client relationships and developing new opportunities
• Recognized as a credible, influential leader with a reputation for integrity and sound judgment
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the professionalism required to engage effectively at all organizational levels
• Ability to inspire, influence, and guide high‑performing teams toward operational excellence and continuous improvement
• Advanced leadership and people‑management skills, with experience building collaborative, empowered, and solutions‑focused teams
• Demonstrated success in creating a positive team culture where individuals are motivated to perform at their best and feel connected to the organization’s mission and values

Why work at GDI Ainsworth?

GDI Ainsworth is growing at an unprecedented rate and to help attract and retain top talent, we provide benefits on your first day with us. We offer a wide variety of benefits including the following:

Benefits: Comprehensive health, dental and medical benefits, including wellness supports, RSP matching and generous vacation

Rewards: Service milestones and peer recognition plus Employee Discounts and Incentives

Flexibility: Hybrid working models, where applicable

Diversity: An inclusive organization that embraces diversity and belonging; work in a great team atmosphere with future potential for promotion within company

GDI Ainsworth is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Qualified designated group members are encouraged to apply as any reasonable accommodation of qualifications will be considered as per our Accommodation Policy, available upon request.