Age 35
Where are you based at the moment (who do you work for)?
I am based in Cape Town, working for the Western Cape Government (WCG) Department of Infrastructure as a Chief Construction Project Manager/Programme Manager.
In what year did you complete your honours degree?
2010, graduated April 2011.
What path did you follow before ending up with your current company?
I worked for NMC construction for 1.5 years after graduation, my last site being the Adringa Walk/ Eikestad Mall development in Stellenbosch before moving to Eskom as a Junior Project Manager for Buildings and Facilities in 2012. I was later allocated to electrical network upgrade, strengthening and refurbishment projects. During my time at Eskom, I also managed to develop my project management skills and obtained my professional registration with SACPCMP and PMI. I then moved to the WCG Department of Infrastructure previously known as the Department of Public Works in Feb 2021 as a Construction Project Manager for education infrastructure projects. I have since been appointed from 01 April 2023 as a Chief Construction Project Manager/Programme Manager for health infrastructure projects.
What is your current position and what does the role entail?
Chief Construction Project Manager/Programme Manager. My role focuses on the planning, implementation and management of health infrastructure maintenance and capital projects ensuring the efficient and economical delivery thereof in line with the Western Cape Government values.
What advice would you give a current construction management student?
The construction industry is dynamic and challenging but also fulfilling. This is an industry that plays a major role in building countries and the economy, and one can play a significant role in changing the lives of others and making a permanent mark through their career. Therefore, I would advise students to give it their all, develop a passion and commit to working hard while enjoying the dynamics and everchanging nature of each construction project and to ensure continuous professional development throughout their careers via further studies, attending seminars and workshops, mentoring and coaching and networking to keep abreast of new developments.
What was your favourite module?
I enjoyed the entire programme from undergraduate to postgraduate. I enjoyed that the programme exposed us to all facets of the construction industry including the business side of it. With the course I was equipped to understand the technical side, business side and information technology related to the construction environment. My favourite module was construction management.
Who was your favourite lecturer?
Prof John Smallwood, I love how he set an excellent standard for professional writing, communication, and presentation. I am realising the value of these skills in the workplace and through his supervision, I managed to produce good research work during my honours year which was published. Prof Winston Shakantu and Prof Brink Botha were also my favourites.
What are your plans for the next 5 to 10 years?
I have recently been allocated mega projects which I am excited about as these are complex and multi-billion-rand value projects, my plan is to grow my skills and expertise in the management of mega projects and programmes. I am also studying towards a MSc in Project Management to enhance my skills. My longer-term goal is to diversify my experience and grow into an executive management position as well as to obtain a PhD and carve a career path for myself into academia.