Head of Department - Built Environment / Project Management

SUMMARY:
Head of Department - Built Environment / Project Management

POSITION INFO:

A well-established organisation within the built environment sector is seeking an experienced and dynamic Head of Department to lead and grow its Cape Town operations. This senior leadership role requires a strategic professional who can provide technical oversight, operational management, and team leadership, while ensuring the successful delivery of complex projects.

The successful candidate will play a key role in driving departmental performance, strengthening client relationships, and identifying new business opportunities, while ensuring projects are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget.

Strategic & Operational Leadership

• Align departmental objectives with divisional and organisational strategies.

• Identify areas for operational improvement and implement effective solutions.

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients, partners, and regulatory bodies.

Project Management & Technical Oversight

• Lead complex projects from inception to completion.

• Review and approve designs, contract documentation, and technical submissions (JBCC, FIDIC, NEC, GCC).

• Lead technical and stakeholder meetings, guiding project teams toward successful outcomes.

Staff Management & Development

• Recruit, mentor, and manage a multidisciplinary team.

• Conduct performance reviews and implement development plans.

• Ensure the department is appropriately resourced to meet project demands.

Financial Planning & Control

• Prepare and manage departmental budgets.

• Monitor financial performance and forecasts.

• Ensure alignment with organisational revenue and profitability goals.

Business Development

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities.

• Contribute to the preparation of bids, tenders, and proposals.

• Build long-term relationships with clients and strategic partners.

Quality Assurance & Compliance

• Ensure projects comply with internal quality standards and external regulations.

• Oversee contractual compliance and sub-consultant agreements.

• Maintain organised project documentation and ensure audit readiness.

Qualifications

• BSc Construction Management / Construction Studies or equivalent.

• BSc Honours in Construction Management or a similar field (advantageous).

• PMP and/or Pr.CPM required.

• Professional registration with a recognised professional council.

Experience

• Minimum 8+ years’ experience in the built environment.

• Proven leadership or departmental management experience.

• Demonstrated expertise managing the full project lifecycle from concept to close-out.