Program Manager

About the Position

The Project Implementation Support Unit (PISU) forms part of the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) and supports Transnet in advancing South Africa’s shift toward low-carbon, climate-resilient transport infrastructure. Funded through the EU-supported IIPSA grant and aligned with the EIB’s Decarbonisation Framework Loan, the PISU provides end-to-end support across project preparation, procurement, implementation, monitoring, and reporting. Its work enables the decarbonisation of key rail and port assets while strengthening governance, planning systems, and institutional capacity to deliver long-term energy transition investments.

Responsibilities

You will contribute your expertise to lead, coordinate, and support the successful delivery of this multi-year technical assistance assignment. For this role, we find the following experience particularly relevant:

• 15+ years of experience, including 10+ years managing large-scale infrastructure programmes.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in Sub-Saharan Africa; South Africa experience an advantage.
• Focused experience in port and railway sector projects (advantage).
• Proven experience establishing and running PgMO/PMO daily operations.
• Team Leader in at least one large-scale infrastructure project (CAPEX > EUR 100m) within the last 10 years.
• 5+ years managing multicultural teams in complex infrastructure programmes.
• 5+ years’ experience in green energy and decarbonisation policy dialogues.
• Experience across at least four infrastructure projects in developing countries, including:
  • Preparation studies: feasibility studies, detailed designs, tender documentation;
  • Implementation support: technical assistance to asset owners.
• Proven collaboration with EU, EIB, AfDB, WB, AFD/Proparco, FMO, KfW or similar IFIs.

Requirements

• University degree in engineering, economics, business administration, project management or equivalent.
• Proficiency in oral and written English language.
• Certification in Programme Management or Project Management (PgMP or PMP from PMI or equivalent).
• Proficiency in the use of project management IT tools/systems.

The Programme Manager must demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills and a record of successful project experience with multi-sector teams. S/he will also need to possess excellent drafting skills and be a good communicator and a facilitator of contacts among different stakeholders.

We Offer

• Opportunity to work on a pivotal role in South Africa’s energy transition.
• Collaborate with international institutions and stakeholders.
• Contribute to a significant global initiative aimed at reducing carbon emissions.

About the Company

The Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) is a collaborative effort to support South Africa’s transition to a low-carbon economy. By aligning with the EIB’s Decarbonisation Framework Loan and the EU-supported IIPSA grant, JETP aims to provide comprehensive support for sustainable infrastructure projects.