General Manager

Title: General ManagerLocation: Gaborone, BotswanaAbout the RoleThe General Manager (GM) is a technically qualified and experienced manager responsible for the overall operational, technical, and financial performance of the Botswana business.This role combines engineering expertise with business management oversight, ensuring that all projects and operational sites deliver optimal performance — technically, financially, and in line with standards.The GM will lead project design, oversee installations, manage ongoing operations and maintenance, and ensure accurate financial and performance reporting to Group management.Responsibilities:Lead all engineering activities for PV and BESS projects, from design through to commissioning.Prepare, review, and approve designs, layouts, BOQs, and system configurations in coordination with the Group Engineering team.Ensure designs comply with industry standards, local regulations, and technical guidelines.Support project costing, supplier evaluations, and equipment selection to ensure technical and commercial viability.Provide engineering oversight during installation, testing, and commissioning phases.Manage end-to-end project delivery including planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and subcontractor coordination.Ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and to Group quality and safety standards.Oversee day-to-day operations of the Botswana business, ensuring that teams and systems function effectively.Implement and maintain robust HSE standards and ensure full compliance across all worksites.Take ownership of the operational performance of the Botswana portfolio, including generation output, uptime, cleaning schedules, and maintenance compliance.Monitor site data and performance metrics using AMMP or equivalent platforms.Identify underperforming systems, diagnose technical faults, and implement corrective action plans.Oversee maintenance schedules, site visits, and ensure high standards of preventative and corrective maintenance.Manage relationships with third-party cleaning or maintenance service providers to ensure SLAs are met.Manage the Botswana operational budget, ensuring cost control across labour, fleet, materials, and maintenance activities.Work closely with the Finance Director to ensure accurate financial reporting, invoicing, and adherence to Group financial policies.Track and report on project and operational expenditures, forecasting, and profitability.Prepare and submit monthly management and performance reports to the Group CEO and Finance team, covering technical, operational, and financial metrics.Support audit, compliance, and regulatory submissions as required.Act as the primary point of contact for all Botswana customers, ensuring timely communication and strong professional relationships.Oversee customer issue resolution and ensure service quality and satisfaction.Support new business opportunities within Botswana by identifying leads and facilitating project feasibility assessments.Liaise with utilities, regulators, and local stakeholders as required for permitting or operational compliance.Lead and mentor the local team (Finance Director, Technicians, and subcontractors).Build a high-performance culture grounded in accountability, safety, and teamwork.Ensure ongoing skills development and adherence to Group HR, compliance, and reporting requirements.Promote alignment with operational standards and values.Qualifications and RequirementsB.Eng / B.Tech in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent).Professional registration (ECSA or equivalent) is advantageous.Minimum 7–10 years’ experience in renewable energy or electrical engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership or project management role.Demonstrated experience with solar PV system design, installation, and performance analysis (commercial and industrial scale).Solid understanding of O&M best practices, asset performance metrics, and reporting systems (AMMP or similar).Strong financial acumen and familiarity with budgeting, reporting, and operational cost control.Excellent stakeholder management and communication skillsStrong electrical and renewable energy engineering foundationHands-on operational leadershipAnalytical and data-driven performance managementProject planning, risk management, and problem-solvingFinancial literacy and reporting disciplineCustomer orientation and service delivery focusIntegrity, accountability, and cross-cultural leadership