Published 2026-03-26
Project Manager – Greenfield Paper Mill (240 TPD)
Location: Uganda
Employment Type: Full-Time (Contract / Permanent – Project Lifecycle)
Reporting To: Board of Directors
Build a Landmark Industrial Project in East Africa
We are undertaking a major greenfield paper mill development in Uganda and are seeking a highly experienced Project Manager to lead this flagship project from concept through to commissioning and operational handover.
This is a rare opportunity to take full ownership of a large-scale industrial build , delivering a modern facility producing packaging paper and writing & printing grades from both waste paper and virgin pulp , supported by integrated utilities and a co-generation power plant.
The Role
This is a full lifecycle project leadership position , requiring deep technical expertise and hands-on execution capability across:
Detailed engineering and design
Equipment procurement and vendor management
Civil construction and site development
Mechanical, electrical, and instrumentation installation
Utilities and co-generation integration
Commissioning, performance testing, and operational handover
You will be accountable for delivering the project on time, within budget, and to full operational capacity .
Key Responsibilities
Project Leadership & Delivery
Lead the end-to-end execution of a greenfield paper mill project
Develop and manage detailed project plans, schedules (Gantt/CPM), and resource allocations
Ensure strict adherence to budget, timelines, and quality standards
Maintain full visibility through structured reporting to the Board
Technical & Engineering Oversight
Oversee engineering design across:
Paper machines and stock preparation systems
Waste paper recycling and pulp processing lines
Utilities: boilers, water systems, ETP, compressed air
Drive procurement of major equipment (paper machines, pulpers, turbines, etc.)
Ensure optimal integration of co-generation and utility infrastructure
Construction & Contractor Management
Manage all civil, mechanical, electrical, and instrumentation contractors
Enforce HSE compliance and international safety standards
Monitor site progress and resolve technical and logistical challenges
Implement quality assurance protocols (FAT, SAT, inspections)
Commissioning & Handover
Lead pre-commissioning, cold and hot commissioning, and trial runs
Ensure plant achieves:
Design throughput (TPD)
Product quality specifications
Energy efficiency targets
Oversee training, SOP development, and operational readiness
Execute structured handover including documentation and warranties
Stakeholder & Vendor Engagement
Act as the primary interface with OEMs, contractors, and stakeholders
Manage supplier performance and contract delivery
Ensure all regulatory approvals and environmental compliance are met
Candidate Profile
Experience
12–20 years’ experience in pulp & paper project management
Proven delivery of at least one full-cycle greenfield or major expansion project
Strong operational understanding of:
Paper machines and finishing processes
Waste-based and pulp-based production systems
Utilities and co-generation plants
Technical Competence
Expertise in:
Stock preparation and paper production processes
Boilers, turbines, water treatment, and effluent systems
Experience working with major OEMs (e.g. Valmet, Voith, Andritz or similar)
Proficiency in MS Project, Primavera , or equivalent tools
Qualifications
Degree in Mechanical, Chemical, or Pulp & Paper Engineering
PMP / Prince2 (or equivalent) advantageous
Regional Experience
Experience in Africa or emerging markets highly preferred
Strong understanding of local construction, logistics, and regulatory environments
Personal Attributes
Hands-on, delivery-driven leader with strong ownership mindset
Capable of managing large, multidisciplinary teams on-site
Commercially astute with strict cost control discipline
Resilient and solution-oriented under pressure
Strong communication and reporting skills
What’s on Offer
Lead a high-impact greenfield industrial project from the ground up
Competitive remuneration package (Paid in US$ ) with performance-linked incentives
Accommodation and relocation support
Direct reporting line to the Board with full project authority
Opportunity to build a lasting industrial legacy in East Africa
How to Apply
Submit your CV along with a detailed project portfolio or cover letter outlining:
Greenfield / expansion projects delivered
Plant capacities (TPD) and project budgets managed
Equipment suppliers and technologies worked with
Verifiable references
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis — early submission is encouraged.
Attention: Butch Mollett Email: gordon@zjr.co.za Mobile/ Whats App : +27 83 689 4769
