Vice President Operations

Type: Full-Time

I'm working on a retained search with a reputable contractor seeking an experienced Heavy Civil Executive to lead its established Heavy Civil Division across Connecticut and the surrounding region.

Reporting directly to the CEO & President, the VP will own the division’s strategic direction, financial performance, operational effectiveness, backlog, and long-term growth. The role will work closely with Work Acquisition, Paving, Equipment, Safety, Finance, and HR.

The VP will lead through an experienced Director of Operations , who serves as the division’s second-in-command, supported by Project Managers, Superintendents, and field leadership. This is an executive leadership role.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the Heavy Civil Division’s strategy, operations, and financial performance.


• Own revenue, gross profit, overhead, cash flow, and operating profit.


• Oversee project forecasting, cost control, scheduling, risk, claims, and contract administration.


• Build and maintain a healthy, profitable backlog alongside Work Acquisition.


• Participate in major pursuits, bids, project selection, and owner negotiations.


• Identify and resolve underperforming projects and business risks early.


• Develop, recruit, and retain Project Managers, Superintendents, and future leaders.


• Establish strong management systems, accountability, succession planning, and operational processes.


• Build relationships with public agencies, owners, engineers, subcontractors, labor partners, and industry stakeholders.


• Collaborate across Heavy Civil, Paving, Equipment, Safety, and corporate functions.


• Contribute to company-wide strategy as a member of the executive leadership team.

Ideal Background

• Significant leadership experience within heavy civil, highway, bridge, utility, sitework, or public infrastructure construction .


• Previous responsibility for a major division, region, operation, or project portfolio.


• Proven financial and P&L responsibility.


• Experience leading Project Managers, Superintendents, and operational leaders.


• Strong understanding of forecasting, cost control, contracts, claims, risk, and project delivery.


• Experience with public owners and government agencies.


• Demonstrated ability to build profitable backlog and make disciplined project-selection decisions.


• Strong commercial, leadership, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.


• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Business, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.

What's on offer

• Significant annual performance bonus


• 401(k) profit sharing


• Deferred compensation program after year one


• Vehicle allowance


• PTOProfessional development and industry membership support


• Relocation assistance where appropriate

This is an opportunity to lead a significant heavy civil operation, work directly with the President, develop the next generation of leaders, and help shape the future growth of a reputable contractor.