Chief Operating Officer

About the role

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is the most senior operational hire on the platform, reporting directly to the Managing Director. This builder‑type role drives day‑to‑day execution of three infrastructure platforms, allowing the MD to focus on strategic relationships and concession origination.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee daily execution across all three business platforms and chair weekly cross‑platform progress reviews.
• Escalate strategic decisions, material risks, and government relations to the MD while managing routine matters independently.
• Ensure each platform meets milestones, budget targets, and lender covenant requirements.
• Manage financial close, lender relationships, and government & stakeholder engagement.
• Line‑manage the Group Financial Controller, Technology & Systems Lead, Legal & Compliance Lead, and India Head.
• Hold project leads accountable through structured reporting and weekly cadence.
• Oversee EPC contractor selection, contract award, design consultant delivery, and construction sequencing (Phase 1A & 1B) with a focus on HSE compliance and quality assurance.

Required profile

• Minimum 15 years in infrastructure, ports, logistics, or PPP concession delivery.
• At least 5 years in a senior leadership role with a proven track record of taking large‑scale projects from development to operational delivery in Africa.
• Experience managing Development Finance Institution relationships, lender covenants, and project‑finance structures.
• Prior exposure to dry ports, ICDs, port terminals, or multimodal logistics hubs is strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in East Africa is essential.

Required skills