Project Manager - Port Development & Operations

Placements24; Richards Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dynamic Project Manager to oversee port development and operational improvement projects in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. The role demands strategic thinking and the ability to manage large-scale programs within the maritime or logistics sector.

You will lead the full project lifecycle from planning to closure, ensure safety and regulatory compliance, and collaborate with internal teams, contractors, and port stakeholders to deliver on time and within budget.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Maritime Studies, Engineering, Logistics, or a related field.
• Minimum 7 years of project management experience in port operations, logistics, or large infrastructure projects.
• Proven track record managing projects with significant capital expenditure.
• Strong understanding of port operations and maritime logistics.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Experience with MS Project or Primavera.
• Ability to work in a hybrid on-site/remote environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, execution, and delivery of port development and operational improvement projects.
• Develop detailed project plans including scope, timelines, resources, and budgets.
• Coordinate with internal teams, contractors, regulators, and stakeholders.
• Manage risks and implement mitigation strategies.
• Ensure projects are on time, within budget, and meet quality standards.
• Oversee site operations, progress monitoring, and QA activities.
• Liaise with shipping lines, logistics providers, and port users to address needs.
• Manage contract administration and vendor performance.
• Ensure adherence to safety regulations and environmental policies in Richards Bay.

Skills

Project management

Leadership

Risk management

Stakeholder engagement

Communication

Negotiation

MS Project

Primavera

Hybrid work

Education

Bachelor's degree in Maritime Studies / Engineering / Logistics / Business Administration

Tools

MS Project

Primavera

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dynamic and experienced Project Manager to oversee critical projects related to port development and operational enhancements in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This role demands a strategic thinker with a proven ability to manage complex, large-scale projects within the maritime or logistics sector. You will be responsible for the entire project lifecycle, from conceptualization and planning to execution and closure, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and stakeholder expectations. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of port operations, and a commitment to safety and efficiency. This is a key role contributing to the growth and modernization of vital infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and delivery of port development and operational improvement projects.
• Develop detailed project plans, including scope definition, timelines, resource allocation, and budget management.
• Coordinate with internal teams, external contractors, regulatory bodies, and stakeholders.
• Manage project risks, identify potential issues, and implement effective mitigation strategies.
• Ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
• Oversee site operations, progress monitoring, and quality assurance activities.
• Liaise with shipping lines, logistics providers, and other port users to understand and address operational needs.
• Manage contract administration and vendor performance effectively.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety regulations and environmental policies in Richards Bay .
• Prepare and present regular project status reports to senior management and stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Maritime Studies, Engineering, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of project management experience, with significant experience in port operations, logistics, or large infrastructure projects.
• Demonstrated success in managing projects with significant capital expenditure.
• Strong understanding of port infrastructure, operations, and maritime logistics.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera).
• Experience in risk management and stakeholder engagement.
• Familiarity with the operational environment in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal is highly desirable.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, balancing on-site and remote duties.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and a provident fund.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning are provided.
• You will be part of a critical sector, working on projects that have a tangible impact on regional and national trade.
• The hybrid work model offers a blend of flexibility and on-site engagement in Richards Bay .