Maintenance/Construction Manager – Foxes Safari Camps
Key Responsibilities
Project Management:
- Plan, coordinate, and execute construction and maintenance projects across multiple safari lodges.
- Develop project timelines, milestones, and budgets to ensure efficient and cost-effective operations.
- Monitor project progress and adjust plans as necessary to meet deadlines and quality standards.
- Prepare detailed reports and updates for senior management on project status and challenges.
Team Leadership and Supervision:
- Lead, train, and motivate a diverse team of skilled and semi-skilled workers, including fundis and technical staff.
- Delegate tasks effectively and ensure accountability within the team.
- Conduct regular site visits to oversee work and provide hands-on guidance where needed.
- Foster a collaborative and proactive working environment to maintain high morale and productivity.
Resource Management:
- Source and procure building materials, tools, and equipment, balancing quality with cost-effectiveness.
- Manage inventory levels to ensure the availability of essential materials while avoiding unnecessary stockpiling.
- Coordinate logistics for transporting materials to remote lodge locations.
Quality Assurance and Safety Compliance:
- Implement and maintain safety protocols to ensure the well-being of all workers.
- Inspect completed projects and ongoing work to ensure they meet company standards and quality benchmarks.
- Address any safety hazards or quality issues promptly and implement corrective measures.
Maintenance Planning and Implementation:
- Develop and execute preventive maintenance schedules to reduce downtime and extend the lifespan of assets.
- Ensure prompt response to maintenance issues to minimise disruption to lodge operations.
- Maintain records of repairs, upgrades, and routine maintenance tasks for each lodge.
Problem Solving and Troubleshooting:
- Quickly identify and resolve issues related to building works, infrastructure, or mechanical failures.
- Develop innovative solutions for maintenance challenges, especially in remote and resource-limited settings.
Collaboration and Communication:
- Work closely with lodge managers to understand operational needs and integrate maintenance plans seamlessly.
- Liaise with senior management to align project priorities with overall company goals.
- Communicate clearly and effectively with both local staff and expatriate colleagues.
Training and Capacity Building:
- Mentor local staff to develop technical skills and promote self-sufficiency.
- Provide on-the-job training to enhance the team’s capabilities in maintenance and repair tasks.
- Encourage best practices in construction and maintenance through practical demonstrations and guidance.
Documentation and Reporting:
- Maintain comprehensive project records, including progress reports, budgets, and maintenance logs.
- Keep accurate documentation of materials used, costs incurred, and any challenges faced.
- Submit detailed reports to senior management on the status of ongoing and completed projects.
Requirements
Skills and Competencies:
- Exceptional project management skills, including the ability to plan, prioritise, and execute projects effectively.
- Strong problem-solving abilities, with a practical and hands-on approach to tackling challenges.
- Proficiency in budgeting, cost control, and resource management.
- High level of technical proficiency and hands-on capability, with a willingness to work alongside the team when necessary.
Experience and Qualifications:
- A minimum of 5 years’ proven experience in construction and maintenance management, preferably in a remote or safari lodge setting.
- Relevant qualifications in construction management, engineering, or a related field are highly desirable.
- Practical experience working with building trades, including carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, mechanics, and general maintenance.
- Demonstrated experience in leading and managing diverse teams, including skilled and semi-skilled workers.
Personal Attributes:
- Adaptable and resilient, with the ability to thrive in remote and challenging environments.
- Proactive and self-motivated, capable of working independently and making sound decisions.
- Strong work ethic and commitment to maintaining high standards of quality and safety.
Additional Requirements:
- Fluency in English is essential; knowledge of Swahili or a willingness to learn is required.
- Physically fit and capable of performing manual tasks when required.
- Experience working in East Africa or similar environments is a strong advantage.