Country Operations Manager DACH region

Intero – The Sniffers, part of the Intero Group, specializes in identifying current and potential leaks in pipelines and industrial oil and gas installations. Our mission is to reduce emissions, minimize energy losses, and maintain pipeline integrity. Based in Balen, Belgium, we are a flexible organization with over 170 employees operating globally, delivering high-quality services to leading companies in the chemical and oil & gas industries.

To strengthen our position in the market and to support our strategic growth by launching new services and accessing new verticals, we are seeking a dynamic and experienced Country Operations Manager to build further and lead our team in the DACH region.

This pivotal role demands a strong technical background in gas infrastructure or environmental engineering, excellent leadership skills, and the ability to manage budgets, compliance, and client relationships with precision.

Project Delivery

• Oversee the successful planning and execution of emission measurement services.
• Manage project teams, monitor performance, and ensure delivery within scope, time, and budget.
• Coordinate field activities and report to the Operations Director.

Client Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key customers in the gas and energy sectors.
• Understand client needs and ensure satisfaction with our services.
• Align with the Sales Director on strategic client engagement.

Financial Oversight

• Manage the country's budget in line with corporate financial plans.
• Monitor expenditures and report financial performance to headquarters in Balen, Belgium.

Team Leadership

• Recruit, train, and motivate staff across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
• Foster a high-performing, collaborative work environment.
• Work closely with HR to ensure a smooth recruitment and onboarding process.

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure all operations comply with safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Act as Technical Manager for ISO management system compliance and validation.
• Take ownership of DVGW-related responsibilities as "Verantwortliche Fachmann."

DVGW & Regulatory Expertise

This role requires proven experience with DVGW standards, which are central to Germany's gas sector. You'll be responsible for ensuring compliance with technical rules and certifications, such as:

• GW 301, W 1000, G 260
• G468-1, G468-2, G465 (experience or certification is a strong asset)
• Regular liaison with DVGW bodies and accredited auditors
• Technical validation of planning, installation, and maintenance activities
• Internal point of contact for all DVGW-related topics

Candidates from the energy sector (especially gas) or with experience in German technical regulations and quality standards will be strongly favored.

• A strategic leadership role in a mission-driven organization
• The opportunity to shape environmental compliance across the DACH region
• A collaborative culture that values technical excellence and personal growth
• Competitive compensation and the autonomy to make impactful decisions
• An appropriate remuneration package reflecting the scope and duties of the position

Your Skills and Experience

• Technical education (e.g., engineer, technician) in gas distribution or underground piping
• Several years of hands-on experience in gas infrastructure projects
• Deep familiarity with DVGW rules and German safety regulations
• Strong knowledge of emission measurement technologies and project management
• Experience with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 17025, and EHS compliance
• Fluent in German and English
• Excellent leadership, communication, and client management skills
• Financial acumen and results-driven mindset