Head of Commercial Projects and Asset Transformation

Main Purpose

We are seeking an exceptional senior technical leader to join our Operating Assets Division in a newly created role focused on driving excellence in capital project delivery and asset transformation across our global portfolio. Reporting to our Global Head of Operating Assets, you will serve as a trusted technical advisor and centre of excellence, providing expert oversight and constructive challenge on complex capital projects and operational transformations.

This is a unique opportunity to shape how a leading global commodities trader manages its diverse portfolio of physical assets – from terminals and storage facilities to mining operations and renewable energy projects. You will work at the intersection of technical excellence and commercial strategy, enabling project success through deep expertise, rigorous analysis, and influential stakeholder engagement. With potential to evolve into broader operational leadership, this role offers significant scope for impact and career development within a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.

• Provide senior technical oversight and constructive challenge on major capital projects across our global asset portfolio
• Conduct rigorous technical assessments of project designs, schedules, budgets and execution strategies
• Identify delivery risks early and recommend corrective actions to keep projects on track
• Challenge assumptions and provide expert guidance to project teams and senior leadership
• Determine when specialist technical resources are required and mobilise appropriate expertise

• Lead technical assessments of underperforming assets and evaluate turnaround strategies
• Challenge asset leadership teams constructively on transformation plans and value creation initiatives
• Identify opportunities for operational improvements and efficiency gains
• Support development of technically robust performance improvement roadmaps

• Oversee technical aspects of newly acquired asset integrations
• Coordinate resources and manage integration work streams and programme delivery
• Establish governance frameworks and ensure smooth knowledge transfer
• Work collaboratively with business transformation teams on acquisition integration

• Provide early-stage technical due diligence on new capital investment opportunities
• Scrutinise technical robustness and economic viability of major capital proposals
• Support business case development with rigorous technical analysis
• Challenge feasibility assumptions and identify technical risks before major commitments

• Identify capability gaps across the portfolio and mobilise specialist support as needed
• Develop internal technical capability through coaching and knowledge sharing
• Maintain appropriate cost/benefit discipline in resource deployment

• Provide technical briefings to boards of portfolio companies on major projects and risks
• Present complex technical matters clearly to senior leadership and investment committees
• Build credibility and influence through expertise and collaborative working relationships
• Work effectively with asset leadership teams and project managers on a peer-to-peer basis

• Minimum 15-20 years' experience in large-scale capital projects and/or asset operations in mining, oil & gas, power generation, or process industries
• Proven track record of delivering complex capital projects exceeding USD 500 million
• Strong technical background in engineering, metallurgy, or related discipline (Bachelor's degree minimum)
• Experience working at senior levels within top-tier consulting firms (McKinsey, BCG, Bain, PWC or similar) and/or in senior operational roles within asset-intensive industries
• Demonstrated ability to challenge senior leadership constructively and influence without direct authority
• Experience in asset turnarounds, performance improvement, and operational transformation
• Track record of building and managing technical teams
• Excellent English communication skills (native or C2 equivalent)

• A…