We are looking for a Chief Operating Officer (COO) for Passenger Transportation JSC, based in Astana.
Deutsche Bahn’s expertise is in high demand all around the world. As a leading engineering and consulting company in the rail sector, DB Engineering & Consulting offers that knowledge – starting with an idea and continuing all the way to operations. We advise our customers in Germany and around the globe, develop technically sophisticated and customized infrastructure, mobility and transport solutions. With sustainable concepts, we ensure the future success of economic regions, make important contributions to the protection of the environment and help shape the world of the future.
Since 1966, DB Engineering & Consulting has implemented thousands of projects of any size and complexity in over 100 countries. About 5,000 employees from 84 nations are currently realizing the projects of our customers with professional knowledge and intercultural experience.
Responsibilities:
- Operational strategy: develop and implement strategic plans to improve the operational efficiency, safety and productivity of the railway. In conjunction with the COO and other executives, define the railway company's long-term goals and objectives
- Safety and compliance: ensure strict compliance with safety regulations and standards set by government agencies and industry organisations. Implement employee safety training programmes and maintain a high safety culture throughout the operations
- Maintenance and infrastructure: oversee the maintenance and modernisation of railway infrastructure, including tracks, bridges, signals and rolling stock. Ensuring timely inspections and repairs to maintain system reliability and safety.
- Service quality: monitoring and improving customer service levels to enhance customer satisfaction and service quality. Implementing feedback mechanisms and utilising analytical data to identify areas for improvement
- Efficiency and cost management: identifying opportunities to reduce costs and improve the efficiency of the railway system. Implement processes to optimise resource allocation and rationalise operations while maintaining service quality. Efficiency and cost management: Identifying opportunities to save costs and improve the efficiency of the railway system. Implement processes to optimise resource allocation and rationalise operations while maintaining service quality
- Employee management: lead and manage a diverse workforce, including train drivers, maintenance staff and operational staff. Create a co-operative and motivational environment that promotes productivity and employee growth
- Stakeholder relations: building and maintaining strong relationships with relevant stakeholders, including government bodies, regulators, trade unions and local communities. Troubleshooting and co-operation on projects and initiatives affecting railway operations
- Technology and innovation: keep abreast of the latest trends and achievements in railway technology. Evaluate and implement innovative solutions to improve railway productivity and efficiency.
- Emergency preparedness: develop and implement contingency plans to deal with emergencies such as accidents, natural disasters or service disruptions, minimising downtime and ensuring the safety of passengers and staff.
- Financial management: work with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to develop budgets and effectively manage financial resources. Monitor financial performance and identify opportunities to improve cost efficiency
Qualifications:
- Higher professional education. Transport, transport techniques and technologies (railway transport); Organisation of transportation, traffic and operation of transport; Marketing; Management; Economics; Jurisprudence.
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Transport Management, Business Administration or a related field. An advanced degree or relevant certificates will be an advantage
- At least 10 years of work in the field of specialization, including at least 5 years in management positions in the field of activity and/or in companies comparable in scale of activity, complexity and revenue volume to the KTZ Group, including at least 3 years in the DB Group;
- Experience experience in creating and implementing in large companies the strategy, planning activities and processes in professional activity; experience in using the implementation of information systems and marketing tools.
- Extensive experience in the railway industry, including senior positions.
- Proven track record of successfully managing large railway operations and achieving operational excellence.
- In-depth knowledge of railway regulations, safety standards and industry best practice.
- Strong leadership, communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with team and stakeholders.
- Analytical and problem solving skills to solve complex operational problems.
- Ability to adapt to a dynamic and fast-paced work environment