Regional Contracts Manager - Africa

TN United Kingdom; Greater London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Regional Contracts Manager to oversee major water supply projects in Africa. This role demands a seasoned professional with extensive experience in water and wastewater infrastructure, capable of managing multi-million dollar contracts while ensuring timely project delivery. The successful candidate will lead a dynamic team, fostering collaboration and compliance while navigating complex international landscapes. If you are passionate about making a significant impact in the water sector and thrive in a challenging environment, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Benefits

Competitive salary

International travel opportunities

Health and safety compliance training

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in construction, especially in the Water Industry.
• Expertise in international contract management and cost control.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate project activities and provide reports to management.
• Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.

Skills

Leadership and team motivation

Problem-solving

Effective communication

Budgeting and reporting

Fluency in French

Education

Civil Engineering

Quantity Surveying

Tools

Primavera P6

MS Office

Job description

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Regional Contracts Manager - Africa, Surrey

Client:

Location: Surrey, United Kingdom

Job Category: Other

EU work permit required: Yes

Job Reference: 063143097b29

Job Views: 7

Posted: 24.04.2025

Expiry Date: 08.06.2025

Job Description:

Overview of role:

The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering major water supply schemes within budget and ensuring the projects' timely completion to the satisfaction of both the Client and Biwater. These projects will be located in West and East Africa, requiring frequent travel within the region. The projects involve the construction of water and wastewater treatment plants, pumping stations, pipelines, and reservoirs. Each project is valued at over $100 million and is fully financed, supported by sovereign guarantees.

The candidate will be based at Biwater’s head office in Dorking, Surrey, UK, and must be able to travel internationally and work closely with overseas colleagues, providing project and engineering expertise. The role also involves overseeing project controls critical to safeguarding the company’s interests, including accurately presenting the company’s position, meeting contractual obligations, and optimising profitability on various contract forms within the water industry.

Qualifications and experience:

• Qualification in Civil Engineering or Quantity Surveying.
• Preferably 10+ years of construction experience in a similar role within the Water Industry, including expertise in international contract management, cost control, and profit maximisation.
• An understanding of Water and Wastewater design and infrastructure coordination.
• Thorough understanding of FIDIC, Yellow Book, and ‘Design & Construct’ contracts, especially for water and wastewater projects.
• Proven experience in delivering major infrastructure projects in Africa.
• Fluency in French.

Duties and responsibilities:

• Coordinate all activities related to assigned projects, providing comprehensive reports to management.
• Work with local construction management to ensure progress and compliance with safety and quality standards.
• Liaise with country management to ensure support functions are available.
• Provide leadership to maximize stakeholder contribution and foster collaboration.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and local laws.
• Oversee design, procurement, and shipping activities, ensuring timely and cost-effective execution.
• Establish clear work scope understanding and build relationships with client’s senior personnel.
• Manage reporting staff and coordinate project requirements across departments.
• Issue cost forecasts, control expenditures, and maximize project profit and cash flow.
• Ensure timely invoicing and receipt of payments, and negotiate with agents as needed.
• Maintain project schedules using Primavera P6 and link to company systems.
• Manage scope changes and ensure proper documentation and execution.
• Prepare and review project reports on progress, costs, and other key metrics.
• Manage project budgets, forecast costs, and ensure financial targets are met.
• Negotiate with inspection agencies and manage project documentation and handover.
• Oversee project procedures, training, and future project estimations.

Person specification:

1. Knowledge and experience:

• Experience in water-related engineering or construction, especially overseas projects.
• Experience with large international water/wastewater projects.
• Commercial awareness and proven Contracts Manager experience.
• Understanding risks and mitigation in developing countries.
• Knowledge of contracting methods, FIDIC, and ESIA control.
• Minimum 10 years’ experience in a similar role.

2. Skills:

• Leadership and team motivation skills.
• Positive attitude and service orientation.
• Problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Effective communication and relationship-building skills.
• Budgeting and reporting proficiency.
• Computer literacy in MS Office, Primavera, and content management software.

3. Internal business processes:

• Commitment to continuous improvement and adherence to procedures.
• Compliance with anti-bribery and corruption policies.

4. Health safety and environment:

• Monitoring and enforcing health and safety regulations.
• Addressing environmental concerns and minimizing waste.

5. Working condition:

• Based in Dorking, Surrey, with UK and international travel.
• Travel for project execution and business development.
• Competitive salary and benefits.