Project Management Officer at SolarAfrica Energy Pty Ltd

Principal responsibilities:

Leadership, Management, and Accountability:

• Manage, mentor and grow project teams from Project Development, Behind the Meter Projects to Wheeling Projects and Execution, Project Scheduler and Document Controller; focusing on leadership development and team effectiveness.
• Conduct weekly & monthly 1:1 meetings (to coach & mentor the team), weekly project updates, and quarterly reviews, and provide regular feedback to ensure alignment with project goals and individual performance.
• Develop and oversee Personal Development Plans (PDPs) for team members, ensuring they have clear growth paths and support for skill development.
• Foster a collaborative, supportive environment where team members feel empowered to take initiative, share mistakes, and grow together.
• Ensure that team members are accountable for their roles and that project objectives are met without compromising on SolarAfrica’s core values.
• Develop and manage comprehensive project controls, including cost, schedule, risk, and resource management. Ensure robust data analysis and reporting to support decision-making.
• Monitor the progress of all ongoing projects, ensuring they meet the predefined standards of quality, cost-effectiveness, and timeliness.
• Implement best practices in project management, including risk management, change management, and stakeholder communication.
• Ensure that projects adhere to all legal, environmental, and contractual requirements.
• Continuously improve project management processes, tools, and methodologies. Drive the adoption of best practices across the organisation to enhance project delivery.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement strategies to optimize project delivery and support functions.
• Encourage a culture of continuous learning and development within the project teams.
• Share knowledge and lessons learned from completed projects to enhance future project planning and execution.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure alignment on project objectives, expectations, and deliverables. Communicate clearly and concisely about project status and risks.
• Develop and implement project management strategies that align with SolarAfrica’s mission and goals.
• Coordinate with your department heads to ensure that all project timelines, budgets, and scopes are clearly defined and adhered to.
• Oversee the integration of project development processes across departments to enhance efficiency and project success.
• Oversee budgeting and cost management for all projects, including financial modelling and forecasting. Ensure projects remain financially viable and aligned with organisational goals.
• Any other job duties associated with this role.  

PERSON DESCRIPTION

Experience:

• Minimum of 5+ years of proven experience in project portfolio management or project controls, preferably within the renewable energy sector or similar industries.
• Extensive experience with project management tools (e.g., Key360, MS Project) and methodologies.
• Strong understanding of financial principles related to project budgeting and cost management.
• Valid driver's license and willing to travel

Specific attributes:

• Strong analytical skills with a focus on data-driven decision-making.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
• Proficiency in project management software and tools.
• Project portfolio management experience.
• Proven ability to lead and manage cross-functional teams. 

Desirable attributes:

• Experience in the solar energy sector or with renewable energy projects. 
• Key 360 experience