Project Manager Job at Windlab

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