Director of Operations, Projects

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.
• 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 completion as per quote, drawings, specifications, and budget.
• Effectively manage direct reports and team members to ensure team objectives and company goals are achieved.
• Implement continuous improvement, 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 customers, primary vendors, and industry personnel.
• Be agile and comfortable dealing with ambiguity in a highly dynamic workplace with multiple internal and external stakeholders.
• Lead through both influential and positional authority via a selfless leadership approach.
• Have excellent financial acumen with a solid understanding of the income statement, balance sheet, and forecasting practices, and provide 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 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 possessing the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience.
• Perform all job functions in a safe and healthful manner, abiding by 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 its 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

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental and medical benefits, including wellness supports, RSP matching and generous vacation
• Service milestones and peer recognition plus Employee Discounts and Incentives
• Hybrid working models, where applicable
• 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.