Lead Project Manager - IT Modernization

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonus

Stock options

Medical, dental, vision insurance

Retirement savings plan

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Lead Project Manager to guide IT modernization initiatives in Sandton, Gauteng. You will oversee the end-to-end delivery of large-scale projects, including system upgrades and cloud migrations, while leading cross-functional teams and ensuring timely, budget-conscious execution.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor’s degree in a related field, a Master’s degree or certifications (PMP, ITIL, Cloud Architect), and at least 10 years in IT project

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or related field.
• Master's degree or relevant professional certifications (e.g., PMP, ITIL Expert, Cloud Architect) are highly advantageous.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in IT project management, with at least 5 years in a lead or senior role managing complex IT modernization, cloud, or infrastructure projects.
• Demonstrated experience managing projects within the Gauteng province, specifically in the Sandton financial/tech district, is preferred.
• In-depth knowledge of cloud computing platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP), enterprise systems, cybersecurity principles, and network infrastructure.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the end-to-end delivery of IT modernization projects, including system architecture upgrades, cloud migrations, and application development, in Sandton, Gauteng.
• Develop detailed project plans, defining scope, objectives, deliverables, timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
• Direct and mentor cross-functional IT project teams, ensuring high performance and effective collaboration.
• Identify, assess, and manage project risks and issues, implementing robust mitigation strategies.
• Ensure clear, consistent, and timely communication of project status to all stakeholders, including executive management.
• Oversee project budgets, monitor expenditures, and ensure financial accountability for IT investments.
• Drive the adoption of best practices in project management, ITSM, and Agile methodologies.
• Manage vendor relationships, contract negotiations, and performance to ensure optimal outcomes for IT initiatives.
• Conduct post-project evaluations to identify lessons learned and opportunities for continuous improvement in IT operations.
• Champion technological innovation and ensure IT modernization aligns with long-term business objectives.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Stakeholder management

Negotiation

Agile methodologies

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/IT/Engineering

Master's degree or certifications (PMP, ITIL, Cloud Architect)

Tools

Jira

MS Project

Primavera

Cloud platforms (AWS/Azure/GCP)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent technology-driven organization, is seeking a highly experienced Lead Project Manager to guide their ambitious IT modernization efforts in the vibrant hub of Sandton, Gauteng . This critical role involves overseeing the planning, execution, and successful deployment of large-scale IT projects, including system upgrades, cloud migrations, and digital platform enhancements. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of modern IT architectures, strong leadership acumen, and a proven ability to manage complex projects and diverse teams. You will be instrumental in driving technological innovation and ensuring our IT infrastructure remains robust, scalable, and secure. This is an unparalleled opportunity to shape the technological future of a leading company and work within a dynamic, forward-thinking environment. We are looking for a strategic thinker with exceptional execution capabilities, ready to lead transformative IT initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the end-to-end delivery of IT modernization projects, including system architecture upgrades, cloud migrations, and application development, in Sandton, Gauteng .
• Develop detailed project plans, defining scope, objectives, deliverables, timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
• Direct and mentor cross-functional IT project teams, ensuring high performance and effective collaboration.
• Identify, assess, and manage project risks and issues, implementing robust mitigation strategies.
• Ensure clear, consistent, and timely communication of project status, updates, and critical information to all stakeholders, including executive management.
• Oversee project budgets, monitor expenditures, and ensure financial accountability for IT investments.
• Drive the adoption of best practices in project management, IT service management (ITSM), and Agile methodologies.
• Manage vendor relationships, contract negotiations, and performance to ensure optimal outcomes for IT initiatives.
• Conduct post-project evaluations to identify lessons learned and opportunities for continuous improvement in IT operations.
• Champion technological innovation and ensure IT modernization aligns with long-term business objectives.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field.
• A Master's degree or relevant professional certifications (e.g., PMP, ITIL Expert, Cloud Architect) are highly advantageous.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in IT project management, with at least 5 years in a lead or senior role managing complex IT modernization, cloud, or infrastructure projects.
• Demonstrated experience managing projects within the Gauteng province, specifically in the Sandton financial/tech district, is preferred.
• In-depth knowledge of cloud computing platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP), enterprise systems, cybersecurity principles, and network infrastructure.
• Exceptional leadership, team management, and motivational skills.
• Outstanding communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., Jira, MS Project, Primavera) and collaboration tools.
• Strong analytical and strategic problem-solving capabilities.
• Experience managing significant IT budgets and vendor partnerships.
• Ability to adapt to evolving technologies and project requirements.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, complemented by a significant performance-based bonus and stock options.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance are provided, along with a generous retirement savings plan.
• Significant investment in professional development includes access to advanced training, certifications, and conferences.
• The company fosters an innovative, collaborative, and results-oriented work culture.
• This hybrid role offers flexibility, blending essential office-based collaboration with remote workdays.
• Additional benefits include ample paid time off, wellness programs, and opportunities for international exposure within the company's global operations.
• A commitment to work-life balance is paramount.