Operations Manager

 

Position Overview

Our client is a very prestigious management firm who is seeking  is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee the day-to-day operations, maintenance, and service delivery of our Montreal commercial real estate portfolio.

The Operations Manager will be responsible for ensuring properties are safe, well-maintained, cost-effective, and operating to a high standard. This role will lead building operations, vendor relationships, preventative maintenance, repairs, tenant service, compliance, and operational budgets while working closely with Property Management and senior leadership.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on operational leader with strong commercial property experience, excellent vendor-management skills, and the ability to manage multiple properties and priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Property Operations

• Oversee the daily operational performance of assigned commercial and retail properties.
• Ensure buildings, common areas, mechanical systems, and exterior areas are maintained to company standards.
• Conduct regular property inspections and identify maintenance, safety, and operational requirements.
• Develop and manage preventative maintenance programs.
• Coordinate repairs, emergency response, building services, and ongoing maintenance activities.
• Ensure properties remain operational, clean, safe, and tenant-ready.

Vendor & Contractor Management

• Manage relationships with contractors, service providers, suppliers, and building service vendors.
• Obtain and review quotes and ensure work is completed according to scope, quality, timelines, and budget.
• Negotiate service agreements and support vendor selection and performance reviews.
• Monitor contractor performance and address deficiencies promptly.
• Ensure appropriate insurance, licensing, safety documentation, and compliance requirements are maintained.

Maintenance & Capital Projects

• Oversee repairs and maintenance activities across the portfolio.
• Assist with planning and execution of capital projects, building improvements, and major repairs.
• Coordinate contractors and consultants throughout project execution.
• Monitor project schedules, costs, quality, and completion.
• Identify opportunities to improve building efficiency and reduce operating costs.

Budget & Financial Management

• Support annual operating and capital budgets for assigned properties.
• Monitor operating expenses and identify variances and cost-saving opportunities.
• Review invoices, purchase orders, contracts, and service agreements.
• Ensure maintenance and operational spending remains within approved budgets.
• Provide regular operational and financial reporting to Property Management and senior leadership.

Tenant & Stakeholder Service

• Work closely with Property Managers to respond to tenant operational and maintenance requirements.
• Maintain strong relationships with tenants, contractors, suppliers, municipalities, and other stakeholders.
• Respond quickly and professionally to operational issues and emergencies.
• Coordinate tenant access, construction requirements, shutdowns, inspections, and building services.

Compliance, Safety & Risk Management

• Ensure properties comply with applicable Quebec and municipal building, fire, health and safety, and environmental requirements.
• Maintain required inspections, permits, certificates, service records, and operational documentation.
• Support emergency preparedness and response procedures.
• Identify operational risks and implement appropriate corrective actions.
• Ensure contractors follow all applicable health and safety requirements.

Leadership

• Provide operational leadership to building staff, maintenance personnel, and contractors.
• Establish clear expectations and service standards.
• Build a culture focused on accountability, responsiveness, safety, and customer service.
• Coordinate multiple projects and operational priorities across the portfolio.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in commercial, retail, industrial, or property operations.
• Experience managing multiple properties or a geographically dispersed portfolio is an asset.
• Strong knowledge of building operations, maintenance, contractors, and preventative maintenance.
• Experience managing operating budgets, capital expenditures, purchase orders, and invoices.
• Strong vendor and contractor management experience.
• Excellent problem-solving and organizational skills.
• Ability to respond effectively to emergencies and time-sensitive operational issues.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Excel, and property management/maintenance systems.
• Bilingual English and French is strongly preferred for the Montreal market.
• Knowledge of Quebec building, safety, and regulatory requirements is an asset.