Job Description

Job Advertisement: Business Manager Project Finance
Pretoria Office
Department: Corporate
Contract Type: Permanent
The Senior Manager of Project Finance is responsible for leading the structuring, execution, and management of project finance transactions. This role involves working closely with internal teams and external stakeholders, including partners, lenders, investors, financial advisors, legal teams, and government agencies, to secure project funding and ensure financial compliance. The position requires a deep understanding of deal structuring, financial modelling, risk analysis, capital markets, and regulatory frameworks.
AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY.
Project Structuring & Financing:

• Lead the development of financial models and structures for large-scale projects.
• Conduct comprehensive financial analysis, including cash flow forecasting and sensitivity analysis, to assess project viability and financial returns.
• Structure and negotiate financing terms with banks, investors, and other financial institutions.
• Manage financial due diligence processes, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

Deal Execution:

• Oversee the preparation and presentation of financial proposals to lenders and investors.
• Negotiate terms and conditions of loans, equity investments, and other forms of project finance.
• Coordinate with legal, technical, and advisory teams to close financing transactions.

Risk Management:

• Identify and assess financial risks associated with project development, construction, and operation.
• Develop risk mitigation strategies, including hedging, insurance, and contingency planning.
• Monitor and ensure ongoing financial compliance with lender covenants and project agreements.

Financial Analysis & Reporting:

• Prepare and present financial reports to senior management and board members.
• Monitor project financial performance, comparing actual results with forecasts and budgets.
• Manage the relationship with financial institutions, ensuring timely reporting and compliance.
• Conduct research on market trends and regulations affecting project finance.
• Ensure adherence to financial regulations and internal policies, while preparing and delivering regular financial reports and updates to senior leadership.

Stakeholder Management:

• Build and maintain relationships with investors, lenders, and financial institutions, presenting project analyses and securing financing.
• Maintain relationships with key external stakeholders, including partners, government agencies, and regulatory bodies.
• Act as the primary point of contact for all project finance-related matters.

Team Leadership:

• Manage and mentor a team of project finance professionals, providing guidance and development opportunities.
• Collaborate with internal departments (legal, tax, engineering, operations) to ensure project success.

EDUCATION, LANGUAGE & QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelors degree in finance, Economics, Accounting, or a related field (MBA or CFA advantageous).

ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• 7+ years of experience in project finance, investment banking, or a related field, with a focus on infrastructure or capital-intensive projects.
• Strong financial modelling, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• In-depth knowledge of financial instruments, debt and equity structuring, and capital markets.
• Proven experience in negotiating project financing deals, including loans, bonds, and other financing products.
• Familiarity with legal, regulatory, and compliance aspects of project finance.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills with the ability to influence senior stakeholders.
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
• Strategic thinking and a deep understanding of market dynamics.

• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously with tight deadlines.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• High level of financial acumen and risk management expertise.

Additional Requirements:

• Willingness to travel as needed to meet with stakeholders and manage project-related activities.
• Experience in specific industries (e.g., renewable energy, infrastructure) may be advantageous.

Desired Competencies:

• This role typically requires a strong combination of leadership, financial expertise, and project management skills to ensure successful project funding and long-term financial sustainability.