Lead Architectural Project Manager

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Pension fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Architectural Project Manager in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga to oversee a portfolio of complex architectural projects from conception through completion. You will coordinate design teams, liaise with clients and stakeholders, and ensure seamless integration with construction processes.

The ideal candidate has a professional architecture qualification or construction-management degree, 10+ years of project leadership experience, and strong knowledge of SA codes.

Qualifications

• Architect qualification (PrArch) or Construction Management degree with PM exposure.
• Minimum 10 years managing architectural projects; 5+ in a lead role.
• Strong knowledge of SA building codes and construction methods.
• Proficient in MS Project/Primavera and AutoCAD/Revit.

Responsibilities

• Lead full lifecycle of architectural projects from brief to handover.
• Develop project plans including scope, timelines, budgets and resources.
• Coordinate architects, consultants and contractors throughout the project.
• Ensure designs meet client requirements, standards and quality benchmarks.
• Conduct site inspections to monitor progress and safety standards.
• Manage client communications and stakeholder relations with regular updates.
• Oversee procurement, contract administration and project finances.
• Identify and mitigate risks and contribute to proposals.

Skills

Leadership

Negotiation

Communication

Client-facing

Project management

Education

Professional Architect (PrArch) or Construction Management degree

Tools

MS Project

Primavera

AutoCAD

Revit

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading development and construction firm, is seeking an experienced Lead Architectural Project Manager to oversee a portfolio of diverse projects in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga . This critical role requires a strong leader with a proven ability to manage architectural projects from conception through to completion, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. You will be responsible for coordinating architectural teams, liaising with clients and stakeholders, and ensuring seamless integration with construction processes. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional project management skills, a comprehensive understanding of architectural design, and a robust knowledge of construction methodologies and regulations. This is a hands-on role demanding leadership, strategic thinking, and meticulous attention to detail in a client-facing capacity.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the full lifecycle of architectural projects, from initial brief to final handover.
• Develop project plans, including scope, timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
• Coordinate and manage architectural teams, consultants, and contractors throughout the project duration.
• Ensure architectural designs meet client requirements, regulatory standards, and quality benchmarks.
• Conduct regular site inspections to monitor progress, resolve issues, and ensure adherence to design and safety standards.
• Manage client communications and stakeholder relations, providing regular project updates.
• Oversee the procurement process, contract administration, and financial management of projects.
• Identify and mitigate project risks, implementing proactive solutions.
• Contribute to business development and the preparation of proposals.

Requirements

• Professional Architect qualification (PrArch) or equivalent, OR a degree in Construction Management with significant architectural project management experience.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in managing architectural projects, with at least 5 years in a lead role.
• Proven track record of successfully delivering complex projects on time and within budget.
• In-depth knowledge of architectural design principles, construction techniques, and relevant South African building codes.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera) and architectural software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit).
• Excellent leadership, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in contract management.
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently and work effectively under pressure.
• Client-facing experience and a reputation for delivering excellence.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid and pension fund.
• Employees benefit from exposure to a wide range of challenging and rewarding projects.
• We foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Join our team in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga and play a key role in shaping the region's built environment.