Group Project Manager

Deka Minas (Pty) Ltd; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 1 200 000 - 1 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading industrial refrigeration company is seeking a Group Project Manager to oversee multiple large-scale refrigeration projects. The ideal candidate will have over 15 years of experience in industrial refrigeration and MEP project management, with strong financial acumen and compliance understanding. This role offers an opportunity to lead innovative projects across various locations and ensure organizational goals are met.

Qualifications

• 15+ years in industrial refrigeration and MEP project management essential.
• 20+ years in large-scale international refrigeration project delivery preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute project strategies aligned with organizational objectives.
• Oversee multiple refrigeration projects ensuring quality, profitability, and timely delivery.
• Manage and develop project managers, engineers, and cost control staff.

Skills

Project management

Technical knowledge of ammonia and Freon systems

Team leadership

Financial management

Business development

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Refrigeration Engineering

Master’s Degree in Project Management, Engineering Management, or Business Administration

Job description

Please note this position is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. All relocation costs will be provided, as well as Family Relocation.

Group Project Manager (Refrigeration Projects) is responsible for leading and overseeing multiple large-scale industrial refrigeration projects across various locations, including cold storage warehouses, food processing plants, logistics hubs, and pharmaceutical or dairy facilities.

This role demands extensive expertise in project management, technical knowledge of ammonia and Freon-based refrigeration systems, and the ability to deliver multiple projects concurrently. The Project Manager ensures technical excellence, regulatory compliance, financial control, and alignment with organizational goals.

3. Key Responsibilities Strategic Project Leadership

• Develop and execute project strategies aligned with organizational objectives.
• Oversee multiple refrigeration projects ensuring quality, profitability, and timely delivery.
• Direct all project teams, ensuring standardized execution procedures.
• Serve as the escalation point for technical, commercial, and operational matters.

Technical Oversight & Design Validation

• Review and approve engineering designs, P&IDs, and load calculations.
• Ensure designs are energy-efficient and compliant with IIAR, ASHRAE, and relevant local regulations.
• Support value engineering initiatives for cost-effective system optimization.
• Provide technical guidance during design reviews, testing, and commissioning.

Financial Management

• Own the division’s full P&L responsibility, ensuring profitability and cash flow control.
• Manage budgets, forecasts, and project financial performance.
• Approve project expenditures and evaluate financial health using key metrics (e.g., cost variance, earned value).

Business Development & Client Management

• Lead business development within the industrial refrigeration sector.
• Participate in tenders, bid reviews, and high-level negotiations.
• Cultivate long‑term relationships with key clients and industry stakeholders.
• Represent the organization at technical events and exhibitions.

Commissioning & Delivery Oversight

• Supervise commissioning, ensuring proper system startup and validation.
• Oversee documentation, as-built drawings, and handover processes.
• Ensure all projects are completed within scope, schedule, and budget.

Safety, Quality & Compliance

• Enforce compliance with IIAR, NFPA, ASHRAE, and OSHA standards.
• Lead risk assessments, HAZOP reviews, and safety audits.
• Ensure environmental compliance, refrigerant management, and sustainability.

Team Leadership & Development

• Manage and develop project managers, engineers, and cost control staff.
• Define KPIs and performance measures.
• Promote training in ammonia safety, automation, and project management.

4. Communication Channels

Internal:

• Project, Procurement, and Sales Teams
• Finance and Store Departments

External:

• Clients & Consultants
• Vendors & Subcontractors
• Regulatory Authorities and Safety Inspectors

5. Qualifications Education

• Essential: Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Refrigeration Engineering
• Preferred: Master’s Degree in Project Management, Engineering Management, or Business Administration

Experience

• Essential: 15+ years in industrial refrigeration and MEP project management
• Preferred: 20+ years in large-scale international refrigeration project delivery