Project Manager / Senior Manager

A diversified financial services group is seeking a highly skilled Project Manager (Senior Manager) to oversee the delivery and implementation of strategic projects and programs in accordance with agreed timelines, costs, and scope. The role requires a strong focus on transaction implementation and integration, including project planning, team management, and stakeholder engagement. The position is based in Johannesburg and involves oversight of 1–2 Project Managers.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Key Responsibilities Include, but Are Not Limited To:

• Ensure the successful delivery and implementation of projects, including regular progress reporting against plans.
• Develop, manage, and maintain comprehensive project plans to ensure clear timelines and deliverables.
• Lead project teams from initiation to completion, aligning team efforts with organizational objectives.
• Oversee the quality and timeliness of project deliverables while effectively managing associated budgets.
• Provide support, guidance, and share best practices within the team and across the business.
• Manage project initiation and start-up activities, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.
• Build and maintain effective project teams, fostering collaboration and resolving conflicts to achieve optimal outcomes.
• Engage with business stakeholders to identify and address factors impacting project delivery and team effectiveness.
• Manage project scope, implement change control processes, and oversee relationships with external suppliers and partners.
• Facilitate coordination and alignment between internal and external stakeholders and key business units.

REQUIREMENTS

Education & Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher (essential).
• Professional Project Management qualification, such as PMI (essential).

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of Project Management experience, with a significant focus on business integration and transaction implementation projects.
• Prior experience in the financial services or insurance industry (essential).
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects across their entire lifecycle.
• Proven track record of working with senior stakeholders, third-party suppliers/partners, and cross-functional internal teams.

Additional Requirements:

• Knowledge of acquisitions, compliance documentation, and integration processes.
• Familiarity with project management tools, though specific tools may vary.

BEHAVIORAL COMPETENCIES

• Strong leadership and influencing abilities.
• Analytical and goal-driven mindset.
• Adaptable, innovative, and a strategic thinker.
• Effective time management and strong commercial acumen.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Results-oriented and highly collaborative.

ADDITIONAL CLARIFICATIONS

1. Industry Experience:
Prior experience in the financial services, insurance, or a related field is essential to effectively manage the specific requirements of this role.

2. Project Type:
The primary focus of the projects involves acquisitions, compliance documentation, and integration processes.

3. Methodologies and Tools:
PMI certification is a requirement, while familiarity with methodologies like Agile, Waterfall, or PRINCE2 is advantageous. Tools may vary depending on the project.

4. Critical Skills and Qualifications:
In addition to the listed qualifications, a deep understanding of transaction implementation and integration, stakeholder engagement, and compliance frameworks are critical to success in this role.