General Manager - Pavement/ Bridge Engineering

Our client, a leading engineering services company, is seeking a dynamic General Manager to lead and grow their US operations in the specialized pavement and bridge engineering sector. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced engineering leader to build market presence, drive commercial success, and oversee technical excellence in a niche engineering market.

The successful candidate will have full accountability for operations, business development, and strategic growth while representing our client with clients, regulators, and industry stakeholders. This role combines strategic leadership, technical oversight, and commercial responsibility in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Operations Management

• Lead and manage all US operations with full accountability for performance, profitability, and growth
• Develop and execute comprehensive business strategy, including expansion into new services and markets
• Drive commercial success through business development, client engagement, and revenue generation
• Manage budgets, financial reporting, compliance, and strategic resource allocation

Technical Excellence & Team Leadership

• Supervise senior engineering staff to ensure technical excellence and successful project delivery
• Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and innovation within the US team
• Ensure compliance with US regulations, standards, and professional licensing requirements
• Oversee complex project delivery and maintain high standards of technical performance

External Relations & Business Development

• Represent the company at senior levels with clients, regulatory bodies, and industry stakeholders
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with public authorities and private sector clients
• Coordinate with international headquarters on strategy, financials, and reporting requirements
• Lead business development initiatives and commercial growth strategies

Requirements

• Professional Engineer (PE) license in Illinois - mandatory requirement
• 10-15 years of progressive experience in civil, structural, or pavement engineering
• Proven leadership experience in business or operations management roles
• Demonstrated success in leading teams, delivering complex projects, and driving business growth
• Strong commercial acumen with P&L management experience
• US Citizenship or Permanent Resident status (Green Card) - sponsorship will not be provided
• Excellent communication and leadership skills with ability to represent the company at executive levels
• Strong work ethic with adaptability and resilience under pressure
• Solutions-focused mindset with willingness to go the extra mile to achieve successful outcomes
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced technical degree (Master's or PhD) in Civil, Structural, or related engineering discipline
• Specialized expertise in one or more of the following areas:
• Pavement testing and design
• Bridge inspection and design
• Asset management systems
• Geotechnical engineering
• Strategy development and implementation experience
• Experience with regulatory compliance in US engineering markets
• Track record of successful business development and client relationship management

Benefits

Salary Range: $180,000 annually Exceptional candidates with proven track record may be considered for compensation up to $230,000

Benefits & Additional Compensation:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage
• 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution
• Annual leave and paid time off
• Professional development opportunities and study allowances
• Potential for performance-based bonuses
• Professional license maintenance support

Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

Commitment to Diversity: Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals are valued and respected.

Reasonable Accommodations: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and pregnant individuals. We engage in an interactive process to determine effective, reasonable accommodations.

Compensation Information: For client positions, compensation information is available in the job post. If not provided, it will be shared during the interview process in accordance with applicable laws. When required by law, salary ranges will be included in job postings. Actual salary may depend on skills, experience, and comparison to current employees in similar roles. Salary ranges may vary based on role and location.

Compliance with Laws: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all employment terms and conditions, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Workplace Harassment: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients expressly prohibit any form of workplace harassment based on race, skin color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.

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• Colorado, Nevada, New York City, California, and Washington Residents: Compensation information is available in the job post or will be provided during the interview process if not initially available.
• Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to pay equity and conduct periodic pay equity analyses in accordance with applicable laws.

State-Specific Information:

• Rhode Island: We do not request or require salary history from applicants.
• Connecticut: We provide wage range information upon request or before discussing compensation.
• New Jersey: We do not inquire about salary history unless voluntarily disclosed.

Veteran Status: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients provide equal employment opportunities to veterans and comply with applicable state laws regarding veteran preference in employment. If you are a veteran, please inform us during the application process.

Genetic Information: In accordance with federal and state laws, both Keller Executive Search and our clients do not discriminate based on genetic information. We do not request or require genetic information from applicants or employees, except as permitted by law.

Local Laws: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with all applicable local laws and ordinances regarding employment practices in the areas where we operate.

Note: This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our clients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview process. Employment laws and requirements may vary depending on the employer and location.