Senior Project Manager - Petrochemical Expansion

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Housing allowance

Medical insurance

Pension plan

Executive bonus potential

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal is seeking an exceptionally experienced Senior Project Manager to spearhead a major petrochemical expansion. You will oversee the full lifecycle from concept through commissioning, with a focus on safety, environmental compliance, and operational efficiency.

The role requires a chemical or mechanical engineering background, 12+ years of PM experience, and a track record on projects over R500 million.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering (or closely related technical field).
• 12+ years of progressive project management experience with at least 7 years on large-scale petrochemical/oil & gas projects.
• Proven experience managing projects valued at over R500 million.
• Proficiency with Primavera P6, MS Project, and ERP systems; professional registration with ECSA or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end management of a major petrochemical expansion within scope, budget, and schedule.
• Develop detailed project execution plans and procurement strategies.
• Oversee engineering teams, contractors, and suppliers ensuring safety, quality and environmental standards.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies throughout the lifecycle.
• Manage project financials including capex forecasting, budget control, and variance analysis.
• Engage with regulators, communities and executives to align project objectives.

Skills

Project management

Leadership

Communication

Risk assessment

Stakeholder management

HSE awareness

Education

Bachelor's in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree

Tools

Primavera P6

MS Project

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading entity in the petrochemical industry, is seeking an exceptionally experienced Senior Project Manager to spearhead a major expansion project in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This high-impact role requires a leader with a deep understanding of managing large-scale industrial and chemical plant projects, emphasizing safety, environmental compliance, and operational efficiency. You will be responsible for the entire project lifecycle, from conceptualization and feasibility studies through to execution, commissioning, and handover. The successful candidate will possess a strong background in chemical engineering or a related discipline, coupled with proven expertise in managing complex capital projects within the energy or petrochemical sector. This is a vital role contributing to the company's strategic growth and operational capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end management of a significant petrochemical expansion project, ensuring successful delivery within scope, budget, and schedule.
• Develop detailed project execution plans, defining resource requirements, procurement strategies, and construction methodologies.
• Oversee the work of engineering teams, contractors, and suppliers, ensuring adherence to stringent quality, safety, and environmental standards.
• Conduct rigorous risk assessments, identifying potential hazards and implementing robust mitigation strategies throughout the project lifecycle.
• Manage project financials, including capital expenditure forecasting, budget control, and variance analysis.
• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, local communities, and executive management, to ensure project alignment and support.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant industry regulations, environmental permits, and safety legislation specific to KwaZulu-Natal.
• Drive efficient procurement and contract management processes for all project-related services and materials.
• Champion best practices in project management, health, safety, and environmental (HSE) performance.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related technical field.
• A Master's degree or equivalent is highly advantageous.
• A minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in project management, with at least 7 years focused on large-scale petrochemical, chemical, or oil and gas projects.
• Proven experience in managing projects valued at over R500 million.
• Strong knowledge of process design, plant construction, commissioning, and startup procedures in the petrochemical sector.
• Demonstrated experience with project management software (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project) and ERP systems.
• Professional registration with ECSA or a similar recognized body.
• Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships.
• Experience working in industrial zones such as Richards Bay is essential.

Benefits

• A highly competitive executive salary package with substantial annual bonuses.
• Relocation assistance and housing allowance for candidates relocating to Richards Bay.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous pension fund contribution and long-term incentive plans.
• Access to cutting-edge technology and large-scale industrial projects.
• Continuous professional development opportunities and executive training.
• Significant career advancement potential within a global leader.