Project Management Officer

Are you ready to lead the charge in transforming South Africa's energy landscape? As the Project Management Officer at SolarAfrica, you will be at the forefront of our mission to replace unreliable and fossil fuel-based energy sources with clean, green energy. Your role will be instrumental in turning visionary projects into reality, overseeing every phase from concept to completion.

In this dynamic position, your primary role will not be to run projects but to guide and inspire a talented team across multiple departments, ensuring that each project is not only successful but also aligns with our core values. You'll navigate complex challenges with confidence, always communicating candidly and fostering a culture where growth, accountability, and innovation thrive.

At SolarAfrica, we believe in empowering our people to make a meaningful impact. As PMO, you will have the opportunity to shape the future of renewable energy in South Africa, delivering projects that not only meet the needs of today but also pave the way for a sustainable tomorrow. If you are passionate about making a difference and are driven by purpose, this is the role for you. Join us in creating a brighter, cleaner future—one project at a time.

The Project Management Officer (PMO) at SolarAfrica will establish and maintain project management standards across the organisation, focusing on Solar PV projects. The PMO will oversee project control activities, ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget, and support the continuous improvement of project processes.

**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 stakehol