Head of Services
At Hickory, we don’t believe in standing still, for over three decades we have continually invested in researching and developing systems and products to improve the way we build. Our philosophy is ‘MADE for LIFE’ – it’s a commitment we honour, each day. Everything we do and everything we build is ‘MADE for LIFE.’ Whether it’s refining our patented, prefabricated building products, developing more efficient and sustainable construction practices, or bringing expertise inhouse to supply critical components, we always believe there is a better way. As a result, Hickory have become one of the most diverse property companies in Australia.
POSITION OVERVIEW
The Head of Services role is responsible for leading key service disciplines across all phases of Hickory’s construction projects – from early planning and design through to procurement and delivery. The role ensures services are well-coordinated, meet quality and safety standards, and are delivered on time and on budget. Working across multiple projects and teams, you’ll provide strategic and operational leadership, manage risk and resources, and collaborate closely with stakeholders to drive consistent, high-quality outcomes across the business.
WHAT HICKORY CAN OFFER
- Novated Leases: Take advantage of novated leasing options to maximize your salary and enjoy tax savings on vehicle expenses.
- Family-Friendly Policies: Receive paid parental leave to support your family needs.
- Employee Wellbeing: Access our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for valuable support and resources.
- Wellness & Fitness Amenities: Enjoy access to wellness and fitness facilities, including a yoga studio and gym, to promote a healthy lifestyle.
- Premium End-of-Trip Facilities: Benefit from premium end-of-trip amenities such as lockers, secure bike storage, towel and dry-cleaning service, and top-notch shower and change facilities.
- Modern Office Environment: Immerse yourself in a unique working environment within a state-of-the-art office building.
- CBD Convenience: Our location in the CBD offers easy access to public transport and is just a short walk away from Southern Cross Station, Southbank, South Melbourne Market, Albert Park, and more.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead the early services design process, ensuring alignment with project goals, specifications, and build feasibility.
- Provide expert advice during pre-construction on design impacts, buildability, and value engineering.
- Support procurement and tendering for services trades, including subcontract scope input and risk assessment.
- Develop and manage detailed programs of work for all services disciplines to ensure coordination and timely delivery.
- Oversee and coordinate all major services trades – mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, fire, security and controls.
- Lead and mentor the services team, providing clear direction, effective delegation, and development support.
- Coordinate services delivery in line with construction programs, ensuring works are properly sequenced and executed.
- Collaborate with suppliers and project managers to ensure plant and equipment are delivered and installed on schedule.
- Regularly review project status with the project and construction teams, focusing on service delivery performance.
- Act as the escalation point for services-related issues between site teams and subcontractors, resolving problems quickly.
- Ensure compliance with safety, legal, and quality standards across all services activities.
- Supervise and inspect services works to maintain high quality, safety, and scheduling outcomes.
- Monitor subcontractor performance and maintain detailed QA records and site documentation.
- Oversee the commissioning process and manage a smooth handover from subcontractors to facilities management.
- Train, supervise, and support team members, helping to maintain a safe, productive work environment.
- Coordinate service design packages with architects, engineers, and other stakeholders for smooth project delivery.
- Manage services across multiple projects at once, balancing priorities, resources, and timelines to ensure success.
TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN THE ROLE
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management or a related field
- Over 10-15 years of comprehensive experience in commercial construction, with significant managerial involvement or leading complex service projects
- Demonstrated success in managing multiple projects across varied service disciplines with a substantial impact on project outcomes and overall business objectives
- Extensive experience and a robust track record of leadership, having managed and developed high-performance teams, fostering innovation and collaboration among team members
- Proven success in strategically building and nurturing long-term relationships with key vendors, suppliers and subcontractors, ensuring a robust and reliable supply chain for service-related materials