Head Project Management (Construction)

Biohy; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Job summary

A renewable energy company in Gauteng is seeking a talented Head of Project Management (Construction) to lead the implementation of power plant projects. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in managing large energy infrastructure projects, collaborating with stakeholders, and overseeing cross-functional teams. This role demands strong leadership, communication skills, and a results-driven attitude, offering an opportunity to make a significant impact in the renewable energy sector.

Qualifications

• 8-10 years of project management experience with 5+ years in senior leadership.
• Experience managing large infrastructure or energy projects.
• Strong communication and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the project management function for construction.
• Manage project lifecycle from Financial Close to Commercial Operation.
• Report project success metrics and stakeholder communication.

Skills

Project management leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Problem solving

Financial reporting

Risk management

Education

Degree in project management, business management, or related field

Tools

MS Project

Excel

Visio

PowerPoint

SharePoint

Job description

Pele Green Energy is seeking a talented, highly motivated, and self-driven Head of Project Management (Construction) to join our team.

This role reports directly to the Head of Energy Operations. The successful candidate will lead the Project Implementation function, overseeing all project management activities and guiding the team responsible for preparing and supervising the construction of our power plants.

This will be executed in collaboration with selected EPC contractors and strategic partners, managing the full project lifecycle from Financial Close (FC) through to Commercial Operation Date (COD), final takeover, and internal handover to the Operations Team.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Manage the day-to-day activities across a portfolio of complex infrastructure projects, ensuring a smooth handover to the Operations team.
2. Lead the project management team responsible for power plant construction.
3. Oversee the broader, cross-disciplinary team during construction, managing risks and key decisions.
4. Report on project success criteria, including metrics, testing, and deployment activities.
5. Apply creative and analytical thinking to solve problems, demonstrating teamwork and innovation.
6. Collaborate with Engineering teams for optimal project scope.
7. Establish practices, templates, policies, and tools to mature project management capabilities.
8. Ensure proper documentation and manage project documentation effectively.
9. Prepare estimates and detailed project plans for all phases.
10. Procure resources, including external resources like Owner's Engineers and Lenders Technical Advisors.
11. Provide status reports on milestones, risks, and issues to leadership.
12. Manage project scope, changes, and financial reporting standards.
13. Participate in feasibility studies, vendor evaluations, and proposals.
14. Act as an internal quality control check, conducting site inspections and verifying contractual compliance.
15. Manage ongoing quality control and resolve quality issues.
16. Ensure safety standards and compliance with legislation and standards.
17. Support dispute resolution, negotiations, and litigation as needed.
18. Manage project expectations, stakeholder communication, and ESG work.
19. Facilitate operational exchanges with grid operators.
20. Track and control project outcomes, resolving issues and dependencies.
21. Develop and deliver progress reports and presentations to stakeholders.
22. Coach and supervise the project management team, ensuring projects meet scope, schedule, budget, and quality standards.
23. Manage project risks and issues proactively.
24. Provide leadership and motivation to the project team, conducting performance reviews and staff development.
25. Establish and improve project management practices and tools.
26. Report safety findings and ensure environmental and safety standards are maintained.
27. Analyze project objectives and stakeholder needs for successful outcomes.
28. Assess project impact on operations, balancing delivery with operational needs.
29. Deliver projects that meet revenue, profit, and cash targets.
30. Provide regular updates and escalate issues as necessary.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Degree in project management, business management, or related field.
• 8-10 years of project management experience, with 5+ years in a senior leadership role.
• Experience working with stakeholders in a cross-functional environment.
• 3+ years managing full product lifecycles and understanding development methodologies.
• Proven track record in managing large infrastructure or energy projects from FC to COD.
• Experience with EPC contractors and multidisciplinary teams.
• Proficiency in MS Project, Excel, Visio, PowerPoint, SharePoint.
• Strong results-driven attitude and accountability.
• Ability to work in ambiguity and influence across teams.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
• Valid driver's license and detail-oriented mindset.

Competencies:

• Leadership: Participative, Planning & Organizing, Monitoring & Measuring
• Cognitive: Analysis, Attention to Detail, Problem Solving, Critical Thinking
• Interpersonal: Assertiveness, Methodical Approach, Drive & Action, Flexibility, Excellence & Quality Orientation