Operations & Project Manager

About Us:

At Akila, we are pioneering the future of smart and sustainable buildings through our cutting-edge SaaS solutions. Our mission is to revolutionize how buildings operate and impact their environment by integrating advanced technology. As an international scale-up within a renowned family-owned group, we combine the agility and innovation of a startup with the stability and values of a well-established enterprise.

With a strong commitment to both environmental impact and client satisfaction, we are dedicated to driving positive change in the built environment on a global scale.

Job Summary:

We are seeking an ambitious and experienced Operations & Project Manager with at least 10 years of professional experience, who is autonomous and skilled in project management and technical sales support for the Middle East region. In this role, you will be responsible for implementing our first projects in the region on schedule and meeting client satisfaction, while also supporting our sales partners. Leveraging your expertise in project management and technical knowledge of smart and sustainable building technologies, you will build trusted relationships with customers and deliver high-quality projects. Startup experience is preferred, as it demonstrates your ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

Key duties and responsibilities:

• Client relationship: Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, acting as a point of contact throughout the project lifecycle to ensure client satisfaction and foster trust.
• Project Planning and Execution: Develop comprehensive project plans, including scope, timelines, resources, and budget. Oversee all phases of project implementation to ensure timely and successful delivery.
• Stakeholder Coordination: Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to align on project goals, deliverables, and timelines. Identify and assess potential partners, evaluating their technical capabilities and financial offerings.
• Performance Monitoring and Reporting: Track project progress, manage performance against KPIs, and report on milestones, risks, and outcomes to stakeholders.
• Technical Support: Provide local technical support when required during the course of projects. Run technical audit of buildings (HVAC, BMS) and participate in pre-sales discussions with clients to provide technical insights to support solution proposals.
• Client Requirement Analysis: Assess client needs and requirements in collaboration with sales partners and ensure that proposed solutions align with these requirements.
• Build and Develop a Regional Team: Establish and grow a project management and technical support team in the Middle East region, recruiting and managing skilled professionals.

Skills, Competencies and Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in construction Engineering or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years of experience, with at least 5 years of experience in project management within the SaaS industry and preferably within the smart building industry.
• Skills: Outstanding verbal and written communication and presentation skills. Strong organizational and multitasking abilities, with a proven capacity to prioritize tasks effectively. Demonstrated success in fostering collaboration and building positive relationships with stakeholders.
• Technical Proficiency: In-depth knowledge of HVAC systems, energy management principles, and building automation technologies. Proficient in project management tools and software (e.g., Microsoft Project, Jira, etc.).
• Attributes: Highly motivated, proactive, and solution-oriented, with a strong 'can-do' attitude. Able to excel in a fast-paced, startup-like environment while upholding a high level of professionalism.

What We Offer:

• Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a fast-growing international company.
• Training: Comprehensive training program to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in your role.
• Culture: A collaborative and inclusive and innovative work environment where your contributions are valued.
• Compensation: Competitive salary with performance-based incentives.
• Home Office Flexibility: Option to work from home to support work-life balance and accommodate your personal needs.