Project Manager - Maritime and Logistics Infrastructure

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Profit sharing

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Company vehicle

Annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Project Manager to oversee port infrastructure upgrades at Richards Bay. You will plan, execute, and deliver complex maritime and logistics projects, leading engineers, contractors, and site teams in a demanding industrial setting.

The role requires extensive governance, budget control, and stakeholder management with port authorities and government agencies, ensuring safety and compliance across all phases.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil/Mechanical Engineering, Maritime Studies, or related field.
• At least 10 years in project management, with 6+ years in maritime, port, or large-scale logistics infrastructure projects.
• Experience with port development, cargo handling systems, bulk terminals, or related facilities.
• Strong leadership, communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management.
• Proficiency with project management software such as Primavera P6 or MS Project.
• Experience in managing budgets, risk, quality assurance, and HSE in industrial environments.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full lifecycle of maritime and logistics infrastructure projects from feasibility to commissioning.
• Develop detailed project plans including scope, budget, resources, and risk assessment.
• Lead multidisciplinary teams of engineers, contractors, and site personnel.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Budget management

Communication

Risk management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Civil/Mechanical Engineering

Pr.Eng registration (Professional Engineer)

Tools

Primavera P6

MS Project

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the maritime and logistics sector, is seeking an experienced Project Manager to oversee critical infrastructure development projects at the port of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This is a significant role requiring extensive experience in managing large-scale engineering and construction projects within a demanding industrial environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for the planning, execution, and delivery of port infrastructure upgrades, cargo handling facilities, and related logistical operations. You will lead multidisciplinary teams, manage complex stakeholder relationships including port authorities, shipping lines, and government agencies, and ensure strict adherence to safety, environmental, and quality standards. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the growth and efficiency of a key economic hub. We are looking for a proactive, results-oriented leader with a proven ability to manage complex projects in challenging environments. If you have a strong background in maritime infrastructure and a passion for driving impactful projects, we want to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the entire lifecycle of maritime and logistics infrastructure projects, from feasibility studies to completion and commissioning.
• Develop detailed project plans, including scope definition, budgeting, resource allocation, and risk assessment.
• Lead and coordinate project teams, including engineers, contractors, and site personnel, ensuring effective collaboration.
• Oversee the procurement process, contract management, and vendor performance for project-related services and materials.
• Ensure strict compliance with health, safety, environmental regulations, and port operational standards.
• Manage stakeholder relationships with port authorities, government agencies, clients, and the community.
• Monitor project progress, identify deviations, and implement corrective actions to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery.
• Prepare and present regular project status reports, financial updates, and risk analyses to senior management.
• Champion innovation and best practices in project management within the maritime and logistics sector.
• Ensure quality control and assurance throughout all project phases.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Maritime Studies, or a related field.
• Professional engineering registration (Pr. Eng) is highly advantageous.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in project management, with at least 6 years specifically managing maritime, port, or large-scale logistics infrastructure projects.
• Proven experience in managing projects related to port development, cargo handling systems, bulk terminals, or related industrial facilities.
• Strong understanding of maritime operations, supply chain logistics, and relevant regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency in project management software such as Primavera P6 or MS Project.
• Demonstrated ability to manage large project budgets and control costs effectively.
• Experience with risk management, quality assurance, and health & safety protocols in industrial environments.
• Ability to work effectively in a challenging and dynamic operational setting.

Benefits

• A highly competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonuses and potential for profit sharing.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for international travel and professional development.
• Exposure to major infrastructure projects shaping the region's trade capacity.
• Company vehicle and mobile phone allowance.
• Annual leave and paid sick leave benefits.
• A challenging and rewarding career within the maritime industry.