Delivery Programme Manager: Solar

The purpose of the position is to ensure the successful delivery of all solar projects, the Solar Delivery Programme Manager oversees project execution, contractor management, and procurement while maintaining strict adherence to budget, timelines, and quality standards. This role is responsible for optimising supply chain processes, ensuring regulatory and safety compliance, and tracking project performance through detailed reporting. By fostering strong stakeholder relationships and leading project teams effectively, the incumbent drives operational efficiency and the scalable implementation of solar solutions.

Project Delivery Oversight:

Manage and oversee the end-to-end delivery of all solar projects (both larger-scale and small ooba residential projects).

Ensure that projects are completed on budget, on schedule, and meet quality standards.

Monitor construction progress and resolve any bottlenecks or delays.

Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.

Conduct site visits to assess contractor performance and project milestones.

Procurement and Supply Chain Management:

Lead the procurement of panels, inverters, and other key materials.

Establish and maintain relationships with suppliers to secure competitive pricing and timely delivery.

Ensure supply chain risks are managed effectively, including stock levels, lead times, and alternative sourcing strategies.

Track and report on procurement efficiency and cost savings.

Contractor and Partner Relationship Management:

Oversee and manage delivery contractors to ensure they meet contractual obligations.

Develop and maintain strong relationships with installation partners, subcontractors, and key stakeholders.

Conduct performance evaluations of contractors and suppliers, ensuring alignment with project expectations.

Negotiate contracts and ensure service level agreements (SLAs) are adhered to.

Project Management & Reporting:

Manage and support project managers overseeing solar installations.

Implement and monitor project-tracking systems to measure progress, cost, and efficiency.

Develop and maintain detailed project schedules, budgets, and risk registers.

Prepare and present weekly, monthly, and ad-hoc reports on project performance, KPIs, and financials.

Identify risks and implement mitigation strategies.

Financial & Commercial Oversight:

Ensure financial discipline by monitoring project budgets, costs, and profitability.

Analyse financial reports to optimise resource allocation and cost efficiency.

Work closely with finance teams to ensure accurate budgeting, forecasting, and cost control.

Support commercial negotiations with suppliers and contractors.

Quality Assurance & Compliance:

Implement quality control measures to ensure high-standard project delivery.

Ensure compliance with national building codes, energy regulations, and health & safety standards.

Conduct periodic quality inspections to ensure the integrity of installations.

Address and resolve non-compliance issues from contractors or suppliers.

Stakeholder Engagement & Communication:

Engage with internal and external stakeholders to align project goals with business objectives.

Provide clear and effective communication to leadership, clients, and delivery teams.

Present project updates, risk assessments, and recommendations to key decision-makers.

Handle stakeholder concerns and feedback proactively.

Performance Tracking & Continuous Improvement:

Develop and track relevant Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for project success.

Analyse market trends and innovations to improve procurement and delivery efficiency.

Identify process improvement opportunities to enhance operational effectiveness.

Implement best practices in solar project management to increase efficiency and reduce cost.

Required Skills & Knowledge

Project & Contractor Management: Strong ability to manage and coordinate multiple contractors and subcontractors.

Procurement & Supply Chain: Experience in sourcing and procuring solar panels, inverters, and other critical materials.

Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with solar installation processes, renewable energy technologies, and infrastructure development.

Stakeholder Engagement: Ability to effectively communicate with internal teams, external suppliers, and key project stakeholders.

Financial & Budgeting Skills: Competence in managing project budgets, cost controls, and financial reporting.

Analytical & Reporting Skills: Strong ability to track, report, and interpret project performance data to drive decision-making.

Technology Proficiency: Intermediate to advanced proficiency in MS Excel, MS Word, MS PowerPoint, and MS Outlook.

Communication & Negotiation: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with fluency in English (a second South African language is advantageous).

Minimum Education: Matric (Grade 12) required.

Preferred Education: A tertiary qualification in engineering, construction management, renewable energy, or a related field is advantageous but not essential. Relevant experience will be considered in place of formal qualifications.

Work Experience: Minimum 3 years of technical project management experience in in any sector so long as it's with multiple projects simultaneously and has dealt with big budgets / projects.

Project Delivery Expertise: Proven track record in managing and overseeing infrastructure projects, whether small-scale or large-scale.

Contractor & Supplier Management: Strong ability to engage, coordinate, and oversee contractors and suppliers to ensure project delivery meets budget, timeline, and quality standards.

Project Management Oversight: Experienced in leading project managers and ensuring their alignment with strategic objectives.

Performance Monitoring & Reporting: Proficient in tracking, analysing, and reporting on key project performance indicators (KPIs) to ensure efficiency and accountability.