Construction Director

Overview:

Lead a renewable-energy construction business delivering solar photovoltaic (PV), battery energy storage system (BESS) and related civil, mechanical and electrical infrastructure projects across South Africa. The position carries overall responsibility for business-unit profitability, project delivery, cash flow, safety, operational performance, team leadership and senior client relationships. Reporting to the CEO.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement the construction business strategy, with accountability for profit and loss, budgets, cash flow and operational targets.
• Oversee multiple projects from tender handover and site mobilisation through construction, commissioning support, client handover and final accounts.
• Protect project margins through accurate forecasting, cost control, procurement, subcontractor oversight and commercial discipline.
• Manage contractual notices, variations, extensions of time, claims and supporting project records.
• Identify project delays, productivity gaps and cost overruns; introduce recovery actions and monitor delivery performance.
• Lead, mentor and evaluate project managers and site teams, establishing accountability and effective collaboration.
• Manage senior relationships with clients, EPC contractors, consultants and subcontractors, resolving contractual and operational issues.
• Support bid and tender assessments, pricing, commercial negotiations and selection of viable project opportunities.
• Ensure health, safety, environmental and quality compliance, including applicable ISO management-system requirements.
• Drive project close-out, demobilisation, recovery of outstanding payments and settlement of final accounts.

Minimum Requirements:

• Degree or diploma in Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying or a related field.
• At least 12 years of relevant construction experience, including 5 years in senior leadership responsible for multiple projects and financial performance.
• Proven delivery of substantial solar PV, BESS, electrical infrastructure or comparable infrastructure projects.
• Demonstrated accountability for profitability, cash flow, financial forecasting and project performance.
• Strong understanding of civil, mechanical and electrical construction interfaces.
• Experience in contracts, claims, subcontractor management, commercial negotiation and project recovery.
• Knowledge of FIDIC and/or NEC contracts is advantageous.
• Experience with major EPC contractors and international stakeholders; exposure to Chinese EPC contractors is advantageous.
• Relevant professional registration is advantageous.
• Willingness to travel regularly and remain actively involved on project sites.
• Decisive, commercially disciplined leadership with strong judgement, integrity and team-development skills.