Branch Manager / Operations Manager
Industry: Fire Protection & Life Safety
Reports To: President
Position Overview
The Branch Manager / Operations Manager is responsible for the overall performance, profitability, and operational excellence of the branch. This role provides leadership across fire sprinkler, fire alarm, inspections, service, and special hazard systems while ensuring compliance with NFPA standards, AHJ requirements, and company policies.
The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with strong technical knowledge in fire protection systems, proven operational leadership, and the ability to build, mentor, and retain high-performing teams.
Key Responsibilities
Operations & Leadership
- Lead day-to-day branch operations including service, inspections, projects, and scheduling
- Manage field and office staff: technicians, inspectors, supervisors, project managers, and admin personnel
- Drive operational efficiency, productivity, and quality control across all departments
- Ensure consistent execution of company processes, safety standards, and best practices
Financial & P&L Management
- Full responsibility for branch P&L performance
- Manage budgets, forecasting, labor utilization, and cost controls
- Review job costing, margins, backlog, and revenue forecasts
- Identify opportunities for growth, efficiency, and profitability
Compliance & Technical Oversight
- Ensure compliance with NFPA codes, state and local regulations, and AHJ requirements
- Oversee inspections, testing, and maintenance programs
- Support technical troubleshooting for complex systems and projects
- Maintain licensing, certifications, and required documentation for the branch
Business Development & Client Relations
- Maintain strong relationships with key customers, GCs, property managers, and AHJs
- Support sales efforts, renewals, and strategic account growth
- Resolve escalated customer issues and ensure high client satisfaction
- Represent the branch in industry events and local associations
Safety & Risk Management
- Champion a strong safety culture across the branch
- Ensure compliance with OSHA, company safety programs, and jobsite protocols
- Investigate incidents and implement corrective actions
Qualifications
Required
- 7+ years of experience in Fire Protection / Life Safety
- Proven leadership experience in operations, service, or branch management
- Strong working knowledge of fire sprinkler and/or fire alarm systems
- Experience with inspections, service, and project-based work
- Understanding of NFPA standards and AHJ processes
- Ability to manage teams, schedules, and multiple priorities
- Valid driver’s license
Preferred
- NICET certification (Level II–IV) in Sprinkler, Alarm, or Inspections
- State or local licenses (sprinkler, alarm, inspections, backflow, etc.)
- Background with service, inspections, and construction operations
Leadership Competencies
- Strong people leader and mentor
- Accountable, organized, and detail-oriented
- Decisive problem-solver
- Customer-focused with strong communication skills
- Comfortable balancing field operations and office leadership
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive base salary + bonus structure
- Company vehicle or vehicle allowance
- Health, dental, vision, and retirement benefits
- PTO, holidays, and paid training
- Long-term growth and leadership advancement opportunities
Why Join
- Stable, well-established fire protection organization
- Strong backlog and recurring service/inspection revenue
- Supportive leadership and long-term career path
Apply Today:
This is a rare opportunity to join a growing, reputable organization in the fire protection industry. Candidates with relevant experience are encouraged to apply. Resumes can be sent to Jennifer.waggoner@gogpac.com or call confidentially at 605.370.5534
All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations.
GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.
