Key Responsibilities

• The General Manager will act as the businee builder within the group, responsible for setting up and scaling the new unit into a market leader. This is an intrapreneurial leadership role combining the autonomy and accountability of a business founder with the resources and backing of a large Group.

Business Leadership

• Lead the setup, launch, and scale-up of the Construction Division.
• Define and implement the strategic and operational roadmap, aligned with Group priorities.
• Take full P&L ownership and ensure sustainable growth and profitability.
• Drive business development, identify new project opportunities, and secure contracts across Africa.
• Build strong client, government, and partner relationships to enhance market positioning.

 

Project & Operational Management

• Oversee end-to-end project execution, from bidding to delivery.
• Establish systems for budgeting, forecasting, cost control, and risk management.
• Direct procurement, equipment utilization, and subcontractor/vendor management.
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and to international quality standards.
• Enforce HSE standards and compliance with regulatory frameworks.

People & Culture

• Recruit, develop, and lead a multidisciplinary and multicultural team.
• Create a culture of ownership, accountability, and intrapreneurship within the division.
• Promote innovation, sustainability, and technology adoption in construction practices.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Act as the company’s representative with government bodies, financial institutions, and industry stakeholders.
• Build trusted relationships with consultants, architects, engineers, and regulators.
• Advise Group leadership on construction strategy, challenges, and opportunities.

Desired Skills and Experience

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or related field.
• MBA/Master’s preferred; PMP certification desirable.

Experience:

• 18–20 years’ experience in the construction sector, including 7–10 years in senior executive management.
• Proven success in launching or scaling new operations/divisions.
• Track record of delivering large, complex projects across Africa or emerging markets.
• Strong experience in financial management, cost engineering, and contract administration.
• Demonstrated ability to manage large multicultural teams and capital-intensive operations.

Competencies:

• Strategic thinker with entrepreneurial and commercial drive.
• Strong negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
• Hands-on leader able to combine vision with execution.
• Adaptable to complex, fast-changing, and multicultural environments.

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