Lead Project Manager - IT Infrastructure Rollout (Remote)

About the Role

Our client, WhatJobs Direct , is embarking on a significant IT infrastructure upgrade and seeks a highly skilled Lead Project Manager to oversee this critical initiative. This position is exclusively remote, allowing you to contribute from anywhere within South Africa while supporting operations based in Centurion, Gauteng . You will be responsible for the strategic planning, execution, and successful delivery of a large-scale IT infrastructure deployment. This role requires a leader with extensive experience in managing technology-focused projects, coordinating with diverse technical teams, and ensuring minimal disruption to business operations. If you excel at managing complex technical projects in a remote setting and are driven by impactful results, we encourage you to apply.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage the full lifecycle of IT infrastructure projects, including network upgrades, server deployments, and cloud integrations.
• Develop detailed project charters, scope statements, work breakdown structures, and execution plans.
• Establish and maintain rigorous project schedules, budgets, and resource allocation plans.
• Lead and mentor project teams comprising network engineers, system administrators, and cybersecurity specialists.
• Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate project risks and dependencies, particularly those related to technology and remote team coordination.
• Implement effective communication strategies to keep all stakeholders, including executive leadership and technical teams, informed of project progress and any potential issues.
• Manage vendor performance and ensure contract compliance for hardware and software procurements.
• Ensure all project deliverables meet quality standards and are deployed seamlessly into the production environment.
• Conduct post-implementation reviews to identify lessons learned and best practices for future infrastructure projects.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends relevant to IT infrastructure.

Requirements

• A minimum of 8 years of proven experience in project management, with at least 5 years focused on IT infrastructure projects (networking, servers, cloud, security).
• Demonstrated success in managing large-scale technology rollout projects, preferably in a remote or hybrid environment.
• Strong knowledge of IT infrastructure components and architectures.
• Expertise in project management methodologies, such as Agile, Waterfall, or Hybrid approaches.
• PMP or ITIL certifications are advantageous.
• Exceptional leadership, team management, and conflict resolution skills, particularly within a virtual team context.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
• Proficiency in using project management software (e.g., Microsoft Project, Jira) and collaboration tools (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams).
• Experience managing third-party vendors and service providers.
• Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks effectively, and meet strict deadlines in a remote setup.

Benefits

• A competitive salary package reflecting your expertise and remote working status.
• Comprehensive healthcare benefits, including medical, dental, and optical coverage.
• Generous annual leave and paid time off.
• Dedicated budget for professional development, certifications, and training.
• Opportunity to lead impactful, cutting-edge IT infrastructure projects.
• A supportive and flexible remote work environment that promotes work-life balance.
• Home office setup allowance.
• Retirement fund contributions.