Project Manager, International Real Estate

Job Description

The Project Manager reports to the Manager, International Real Estate (GCSF1) and handles major components of facilities projects, comprising acquisition, design, and construction of Bank’s offices in the International Real Estate (Africa) region - GCSF1. He or She delivers the work program under the direction of the Senior Project Manager, working closely with managers at all levels at Headquarters and Country Offices, internal business units and service providers, attorneys, real estate brokers, landlords, furniture, and equipment manufacturers, architectural, engineering and project management firms, and construction contractors. The position is based in Nairobi, Kenya.

Duties and Accountabilities

• Delivers the work program under the direction of the Senior Project Manager and, as required, by the Manager.
• Responsible for providing technical support towards the design and construction of the World Bank Office Premises, including but not limited to active new office development projects in Nairobi, as well as monitoring other World Bank construction works as assigned. Technical support includes support to project and contract management, as well as monitoring of construction works on site. The incumbent collaborates closely with different stakeholders and provides local knowledge and expertise to help meet the needs of the project.
• Develops the project program with the client.
• Resolves scope of required resources and mobilizes them from within/outside the Bank.
• Supports technical interaction with the internal real estate group for lease or purchase formation and negotiations.
• Conducts review of terms and conditions of lease proposals and assists in formulating strategy for lease transactions.
• Sets the project budget and schedule, and leads the planning, design, and construction process, coordinating inputs from Bank units and outside firms on all aspects of the project from inception through final completion.
• Identifies, inspects, and evaluates alternative sites and buildings, and determines their suitability for the Bank’s requirements and needs.
• Coordinates and directs all implementation activities and resources. Analyzes needs, identifies potential issues, and develops optimal solutions considering user requirements, technical constraints, resource availability, Bank policies, standards, and guidelines.
• Supports the selection of design & supervision consultants, contractors, and specialty consultants for projects.
• Manages the preparation of construction plans, specifications, and contract documents.
• Manages the preparation of project presentations to staff, Senior Management, and governance oversight teams.
• Monitors the project budget and schedule and takes appropriate corrective action when needed to adhere to the pre-established budget and schedule.
• Assures the final completion and timely occupancy of projects in a cost-effective manner.
• Prepares requisitions and approves invoices submitted by vendors/contracts and prepares the required documentation for payments.
• Prepares timely project reporting for clients and Senior Management.
• Manages third-party review and testing and commissioning.
• Manages accurate project document filing.
• Oversees and monitors post-occupancy activities.

Selection Criteria

• Master’s degree, preferably MA/MS or M.Eng. (Architecture, Civil, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering) with 5 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated Project Management experience. A PMP, PRINCE2, or similar certification would be an advantage.
• Detailed knowledge of building design and construction with a thorough understanding of architectural design concepts, building systems and equipment as applied to large comprehensive construction and renovation projects, sustainability principles, and multiple project delivery models. Basic knowledge of institutional interior design theory and practices and familiarity working with corporate Workplace standards, Security and Fire Life Safety standards.
• Experience with the procurement of goods, works, and services.
• Relevant international experience in developing countries. Experience working on projects in Africa would be an advantage.
• Relevant experience working for an international organization would be an advantage.
• Proficiency in written and oral English is required. Proficiency in French will be an added advantage for Kinshasa/Abidjan.
• Robust negotiation skills, including working experience planning and preparing negotiations, setting clear objectives and strategy to achieve them.