Project Portfolio Programme Manager at Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC)

Job Description:

Job Purpose:

• To lead and manage a portfolio of capital infrastructure projects related to oil and gas pipelines, storage terminals, and handling facilities. This role ensures strategic alignment, regulatory compliance, and successful delivery of projects within scope, schedule, and budget.
• The Senior Portfolio Project Manager (PPM) is responsible for the effective delivery of Trading & Supply (T&S) Distribution Operations (D-Ops) projects by leveraging contracted Project Development Engineers (PDEs) and Project Managers (PMs) through the Opportunity Delivery Manual (ODM) framework. The role requires a risk-based, outcome-focused approach to project management, construction safety, project controls, Capex appraisals, and forecasting/reporting.
• Working alongside PDEs, PMs, and Technical Service Contractors (TSCs) providing PMO services, the Senior PPM ensures business opportunities are delivered from front-end design through execution and handover. Success in this role demands strong coordination and collaboration with stakeholders across Terminal Operations, Commercial, Business Development, HSSE, Contracting & Procurement, Finance, Legal, and P&T.

Key Responsibilities:

Programme & Portfolio Oversight

• Strategically plan the SDSA D-Ops project portfolio, including Asset Integrity (AI), Maintain Margin and Growth (MM/G) projects, ensuring effective delivery, governance, and assurance as guided by the Decision Executive (DE) and Business Opportunity Manager (BOM) via the ODM process.
• Support front-end development by identifying required resources across engineering and support functions (HSSE, CP, Finance).
• Prepare and manage annual CAPEX and OPEX plans, implementing robust project ranking and challenge sessions for credible Operational Plan (OP) submissions.
• Conduct regular site visits and contractor discussions to monitor progress and ensure successful delivery.
• Provide monthly and quarterly updates on progress, forecasts, and spending plans (Latest Estimate - LE).
• Ensure accurate reporting in the Program Management Report (PMR) and proper document storage in SharePoint.
• Manage the full lifecycle of infrastructure projects including pipelines, tank farms, terminals, and utilities.
• Maintain a consolidated programme roadmap aligned with business strategy and operational needs.
• Oversee project prioritization, resource allocation, and interdependencies.

Technical & Regulatory Leadership

• Ensure compliance with South African National Standards (SANS), environmental regulations, and international codes (e.g., API, ASME).
• Coordinate with EPC teams to uphold technical integrity and safety standards.

Stakeholder & Risk Management

• Engage with regulators, municipalities, contractors, and community representatives.
• Identify and mitigate programme-level risks (environmental, safety, financial).

Financial & Contractual Management

• Oversee budgets, cost control, and financial reporting.
• Manage contracts and procurement strategies for major equipment and services.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead a multidisciplinary team of project managers, engineers, and EPCM professionals.
• Foster a culture of safety, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Civil Engineering; Project Management qualification (Master’s preferred).
• PMP, PgMP, or equivalent certification is essential.
• Construction Management certification is an advantage.
• Registered with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) as a Professional Engineer or Technologist (or within 2 years in the role).
• 15+ years of experience in oil and gas infrastructure projects, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Familiarity with South African regulatory frameworks (SANS, ECSA, NERSA, DMRE, SANEDI).

Key Skills:

• Strategic programme management and systems thinking
• Strong leadership and stakeholder engagement
• Expertise in pipeline and terminal design, construction, and operations
• Financial acumen and contract negotiation
• Proficiency in project tools (Primavera P6, MS Project, SAP)