Project Manager at NjordFrey Ltd

Job Title: Project Manager REAP EC10

Location: Rwanda

Job Type: Full-Time

About NjordFrey:

NjordFrey is at the forefront of integrating sustainable aquaponic farming solutions with renewable energy technologies to address food security and enhance livelihoods in underserved communities. We are delivering the Renewable Energy Agro-Processing (REAP) Hub project, funded under the Innovate UK Energy Catalyst Round 10, aimed at revolutionising clean energy access and value-added food production in rural Rwanda.

Project Summary: 

In collaboration with a leading provider of sustainable integrated solutions to underserved communities, will leverage its expertise to design/implement the clean energy generation and cold storage components of the hub. By utilising off-grid energy solutions, the hub can be deployed in a greater number of rural locations, increasing inclusivity, and reducing carbon emissions. The hub's generation system boasts an impressive capacity of up to 100kWp, powering integrated agro-processing facilities (including 100m3 capacity of cold storage). This will provide smallholder farmers/communities/businesses with the opportunity to engage in value addition activities, thereby boosting livelihoods.
NjordFrey specialises in delivering sustainable aquaponic kits, seasonal inputs, and comprehensive operational training to smallholder farmers. These solutions not only enable farmers to access a nutritious diet but also significantly increase market yields. Reliable energy access is critical for operating the high-yield systems, particularly in rural areas with limited/no grid supply.

The project goes beyond aquaponics by incorporating additional technologies. The sustainable energy provider will develop a state-of-the-art cold storage facility, enabling the extended preservation of perishable goods, reducing waste, and facilitating improved market access. Furthermore, a food drying facility will be established to showcase value addition, starting with chilli drying in collaboration with a local Rwandan subcontractor.

To optimise operations and energy efficiency, REAP integrates an advanced automated sensor and control system. This intelligently manages energy consumption, reduces carbon footprint, and centrally analyses data for effective decision-making. Relevant information is shared with users/communities, providing valuable support. The primary objective is to demonstrate an innovative and affordable REAP supported by a sustainable business model. By providing clean energy access and value addition opportunities, it aims to empower communities and drive economic growth.

Role Summary:

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Project Manager to primarily lead the two-year EC10 REAP project on behalf of NjordFrey, in conjunction with driving other internal projects. 

The Project Manager will be responsible for the day-to-day management of all project activities, ensuring successful project delivery within scope, budget, and timelines. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Project Planning and Execution: Develop and maintain comprehensive project plans. Coordinate and oversee all project activities, ensuring milestones and deliverables are achieved as per the project schedule.
• Stakeholder Management: Serve as the primary point of contact for our energy partner, IUK, and other project stakeholders. Facilitate effective communication and collaboration among all parties involved.
• Budget Management: Monitor project budgets, ensuring all expenditures are within the allocated funding. Prepare financial reports and forecasts as required.
• Risk Management: Identify potential project risks and issues, developing and implementing mitigation strategies to minimise impact on project objectives.
• Reporting and Documentation: Prepare and submit regular project progress reports. Ensure all project documentation is accurate and up-to-date.
• Team Leadership: Lead and motivate the project team, fostering a collaborative work environment. Address any team-related issues promptly and effectively.
• Compliance and Quality Assurance: Ensure the project complies with all relevant regulations and standards. Implement quality assurance processes to maintain high standards of project delivery.
• Aquaponic and Digital Monitoring System Development: In addition to project management of the EC10 REAP project, the role offers further development projects to improve performance of the current aquaponic and digital monitoring system.
• Training & Staff Development: Train and develop an Assistant PM that is assigned to the company. 

Qualifications:

• Minimum Bachelor’s degree in Project Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of project management experience, preferably in agriculture, renewable energy, infrastructure, or related sectors.
• Proven track record of managing complex projects, ideally within an international development context.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Proficient in project management software and tools.
• Familiarity with the Rwandan context and experience working in East Africa is highly desirable.
• Fluency in English is required; knowledge of Kinyarwanda is a plus.

What We Offer:

• An opportunity to lead a groundbreaking project that will have a significant impact on rural communities in Rwanda.
• A dynamic and supportive work environment with a team committed to innovation and sustainability.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth.

NjordFrey is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Please note that NjordFrey will conduct a work reference and criminal record check for the successful candidate in line with our safeguarding policy.

Application Process

In response to this application, please provide a CV (2 Page max), Cover Letter as to why you are best suited for this position, and any recent references.

Applications will be evaluated, where successful candidates will be invited to take part in a face-to-face interview at our office in Kigali, Rwanda. 

Successful candidates will also be subject to reference checks, include a criminal record check as part of our safeguarding policy within the company.

Only applications submitted through the online form will be considered valid https://forms.gle/W4JcJcSFjBPduTqR8

Deadline: November 21th, 2024

All the best with your application and we look forward to hearing from you!