South Africa
Focused Executive with 20+ Years of Driving Sustainable Energy Development Across Africa. Proficient in All Phases of Development and Acquisition, with a Particular Focus on Leading Multinational Teams with Exceptional Effectiveness.
Leads Globeleq’s Engineering and Construction function, with responsibility from early project development and design through construction and into operational handover. This includes setting clear engineering and delivery standards to ensure projects are built safely, on time, within budget, and to the required quality. Oversees the full construction portfolio and delivery pipeline, with direct accountability for safety, quality, cost and schedule. Working closely with Project Construction Directors and engineering leads, driving strong contractor oversight, risk management, and practical delivery controls from notice to proceed through to commercial operation
Responsible for management and operation of Engie’s renewable assets in South Africa.
In this position, I have successfully led teams in the safe construction and operation of all our generating facilities located across Africa. Over the course of my tenure, I spearheaded the construction and acquisition of 185MW of wind and solar assets, and seamlessly brought into operation a total of 474MW. These projects achieved an impressive annual production of around 1300 GWh, contributing significantly to the region's renewable energy goals. In addition to my operational responsibilities, I provided invaluable support to Private Equity, Lenders, and other stakeholders, ensuring smooth collaboration and alignment of interests. Furthermore, as a Board member and Director for six power companies, I effectively represented the majority shareholders' interests, contributing to strategic decision-making and fostering sustainable growth in the sector.
As the General Manager for Kipeto Energy, I took on the crucial role of leading contractors in the successful construction of a 100MW wind generating facility in Kenya. In addition to overseeing the construction process, I played a pivotal role in developing and establishing a proficient operational team capable of handling all aspects of the business. This encompassed various functions, such as finance and human resources, ensuring the facility's smooth and efficient operation. One notable highlight of this project was the implementation of a unique biodiversity management program, meticulously designed to safeguard and conserve vultures. This pioneering initiative showcased our unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, further reinforcing the facility's sustainable and responsible approach to energy generation. Furthermore, I held the responsibility of actively engaging with key external stakeholders, serving as the interface between Kipeto Energy and these important partners. Regularly reporting to the board and shareholders, I provided comprehensive insights into key performance indicators associated with the business's overall performance.
Working with potential, new and existing customers to find solutions to their challenges on energy projects. Providing East Africa with access to a world of energy experts, while integrating local resources to ensure sustainability of the regional industry.
Project Director for the construction of Kenya's 300MW wind farm close to the shores of Lake Turkana in Northern Kenya. Managing 5 EPC contractors for the design and construction of this international lender financed facility, to provide power to the Kenyan national grid through a 20 year power purchase agreement. Directly responsible for a team of 25 people based in Kenya to oversee all aspects of implementation: construction management, cost management, schedule management, interface management, change control, quality management, contract management, site security management, community liaison management and team management.
Responsible to manage consulting services associated with development of capital projects in the African power sector, including coal, solar/renewables, gas, cogeneration and nuclear power. Clients served in this period include industrial companies, banks/financial institutions, parastatals, development funds and independant power developers (Investec, Anglo American, SCAW Metals, Kumba, AIIM, Eskom, CenPower Ghana, Group5, GigaWatt). Roles include Lenders Technical Advisor, Owners Engineer and FEED contractor. As a project manager I was responsible to pull together a large number of specialist inputs to deliver the client with the right solution. Interfacing with clients, managing internal budgets and doing business development were all integral parts of this role.