This position is suitable for a quick-thinking individual that has the ability to work independently and under their own initiative to solve problems and address challenges within a diverse range of project development scenarios. Although this role requires skills to manage others and coordinate multiple work streams, the Project Manager also takes an active role in delivering project success by getting involved in the day-to-day progress of project tasks. In addition to excellent organization skills and a strong desire to deliver on project tasks, the Project Manager is not afraid to assist with business administration. The Project Manager will be one of the first Nairobi-based employees of Windlab and will play an important role in building the business and portfolio of projects in Kenya. This position will report to the General Manager: Africa and will work very closely with other members of the African team (based in our Dar Es Salaam and Cape Town offices).
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Provide project development and project management services including:
Managing external and internal service providers to achieve project progress and success
Managing scope, timing and cost of tasks within projects and the reporting thereof
Application of Windlab’s project development process and their own professional skills to drive projects forward
Developing and maintaining strong relationships with key project stakeholders, including contractors, local communities, government officials etc.
Liaising with Windlab staff in Africa and abroad in order to organize appropriate resources
Out-of-office work including visits to sites (which can often be in remote areas) and travel for meetings
Detailed examples of such project management activities include:
Taking projects from pre-feasibility through full feasibility and financing, with oversight and management of all associated studies, approvals and contracts
Involvement in all aspects of project development including environmental approvals, grid connection studies and connection agreements, community liaison, stakeholder engagement at all levels from community to government, wind and solar monitoring and resource assessment, electricity offtake agreements and project finance.
Generating reports on project financial tracking against budget, progress against schedule and assessment of project risks
Preparation of projects for participation in government offtake processes
Procurement of services and products and providing assistance in contract negotiations with specialists, equipment suppliers and contractors, and in managing these contracts
Providing assistance to other Windlab staff in regional business matters, managing the portfolio of projects and project financing
Maintaining standards of best practice and assisting with training new staff or interns, from time to time
REQUIREMENTS
Essential
Qualifications and experience
Minimum Bachelor-level degree in a relevant discipline, e.g. engineering, science, commerce, finance
Minimum of 3-5 years professional experience in a project environment
Demonstrated ability of simultaneously managing multiple complex tasks and delivering project success
Valid passport for international travel and legal ability to work in Kenya
Skills
Strong proficiency in MS Office suite
Demonstrated ability to deliver projects/tasks on time and within budget
Exceptional oral and written communication skills
Fluency in English
Effective and positive in communication at all levels of peoples and cultures
History of strong analytical, problem solving, and negotiation skills
Excellent organizational, planning, and prioritization skills
Character
Willingness and availability to travel frequently within Kenya and across the African continent
Self-motivated with the ability to work individually as positive part of a skilled, and highly focused team, with a “can-do” attitude and willingness to take ownership of delivering on their goals
Demonstrated high standards of ethical conduct exhibiting honesty and integrity
Process driven, with attention to detail, complemented by ability to adapt to changing demands
Resourceful, well organized and effective at inspiring and influencing multiple resources to accomplish objectives
Attention to security, health and safety and risk management
Preferred
Qualifications and experience
Formal Project Management training
Experience in energy sector
Experience in wind farm or IPP development
Experience in project management of civil or electrical infrastructure projects in feasibility, design and construction
Demonstrated experience of managing projects in Kenya
Experience in project finance or financial modeling
Kenyan national or citizen of Kenya
Skills and Character
Fluency in Swahili
Understanding of grid integration and the process of engagement with grid service providers
Strong proficiency in MS Project
Enthusiastic commitment to the development of renewable energy
