Head – Engineering Projects

This role is for one of our clients

Industry: Fertilizer, Petrochemical, and Heavy Chemical

Seniority level: Director level

Overview:

We are seeking an accomplished Head – Engineering Projects & Plant Operations to lead the design, execution, and management of large-scale, capital-intensive industrial facilities. This leadership role oversees end-to-end project development — from conceptualization and design through commissioning and operational handover — across fertilizer, petrochemical, and heavy chemical plants. The ideal candidate will be a visionary leader who blends strategic insight with hands-on technical expertise, ensuring delivery excellence, regulatory compliance, and sustainable operations.

Position Details

Designation: Head – Engineering Projects & Plant Operations

Department: Projects & Manufacturing

Reporting To: President / Business Head

Location: India

Compensation: Competitive, commensurate with experience

Openings: 1

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Project Leadership

Define project strategies, execution frameworks, and technical standards aligned with organizational goals and industry best practices.

Oversee project lifecycle management — from feasibility analysis and design to procurement, construction, and commissioning.

Ensure all projects adhere to cost, quality, timeline, and safety objectives.

Evaluate and implement process technologies and automation systems to enhance productivity and sustainability.

Engineering & Operations Management

Drive operational readiness by integrating engineering, procurement, and maintenance functions for seamless plant handover.

Ensure optimal utilization of resources, efficient plant layout design, and adherence to technical specifications.

Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on energy efficiency, process optimization, and equipment reliability.

Vendor & Stakeholder Coordination

Manage complex stakeholder relationships involving regulatory authorities, EPC partners, technology licensors, and contractors.

Oversee contract negotiation, vendor evaluation, and procurement to ensure cost-effective and compliant project execution.

Facilitate clear communication across cross-functional teams and external partners to maintain project alignment.

Team Leadership & Organizational Development

Build, mentor, and lead multidisciplinary project teams comprising engineering, operations, and safety professionals.

Promote a culture of accountability, innovation, and safety excellence across project sites.

Develop and implement training programs to strengthen technical and leadership capabilities within the team.

Candidate Profile

Education: B.E./B.Tech in Mechanical or Chemical Engineering (Master's degree preferred).

Experience: Minimum 20 years of experience in project management, operations, and maintenance within fertilizer, petrochemical, or heavy chemical industries; at least 8 years in senior project leadership.

Industry Expertise: Deep understanding of process design, equipment engineering, plant construction, and commissioning of large industrial units.

Leadership Attributes:

Strategic thinker with strong execution and risk management skills.

Proven record of leading high-value capital projects in regulated environments.

Strong interpersonal and stakeholder management abilities.

Commitment to safety, environmental compliance, and operational excellence.

Growth Opportunity

This is a pivotal leadership position within a rapidly expanding industrial organization. The selected candidate will have the opportunity to shape future projects, influence strategic decisions, and contribute to the company's long-term growth trajectory.

Core Skills:

Project Lifecycle Management · EPC Coordination · Plant Engineering · Vendor Management · Safety & Compliance · Budgeting & Cost Control · Process Optimization · Leadership & Team Building · Regulatory Liaison

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.