Deon Madanjith
Process Engineering Specialist
Secunda
Summary
With 19 years of experience in Process Engineering, I have a proven track record of delivering complex, high-stakes projects across diverse industries. Known for my strategic leadership, technical expertise, and ability to drive operational efficiency, I am confident in my ability to contribute meaningfully to your organization.
Throughout my career, I have led numerous projects from concept to completion, including the Polypropylene 2 (PP2) Project, Synthol BFW Upgrade Project, and Uzbekistan Gas To Liquid (UZGTL) initiative. These experiences have sharpened my skills in concept development, detailed engineering, and project execution, and reinforced my ability to navigate the challenges inherent in executive roles. I am adept at managing cross-functional engineering teams, facilitating seamless collaboration, and aligning project goals with organizational objectives.
My expertise extends to critical technical evaluations, including Hazop, SIL, Design/MFD, and Model Reviews, underscoring my commitment to safety and quality. Additionally, my background as a Technical Support Engineer in Coal Processing and Synfuels has given me a well-rounded understanding of plant optimization and operational excellence.
Having undertaken international assignments and worked within IMT/PMT structures, I bring adaptability, a global mindset, and a strong ability to engage diverse stakeholders. I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to leverage my expertise and leadership acumen as a Process Engineering Specialist to advance your organization’s goals in innovation, sustainability, and excellence.
Overview
2025
2025
years of professional experience
2005
2005
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Senior Process Engineer (Clean Fuels Project)
SASOL Project and Engineering
1 2021 - Current
- As the accountable lead reporting to the Clean Fuels Portfolio Manager, I oversee technical proposals and projects ensuring their quality, safety, and adherence to specifications
- With ownership of key projects like Benzene Alkylation Cat Poly (BACP) and Large Tanks, I implement systematic quality tracking procedures and ensure technical deliverables are meticulously reviewed
- My management ensures process integrity and seamless integration of new facilities while maintaining adherence to specifications and philosophies
- Through strategic oversight, I've identified and resolved critical shortcomings in feasibility packages, mitigating potential schedule and cost impacts with minimal scope creep
- Additionally, my proactive approach involves initiating start-up modifications and meticulously planning performance test runs, demonstrating a commitment to excellence and continuous improvement in project execution
Senior Process Engineer (Coal Processing Unit)
SASOL OPERATIONS
01.2020 - 01.2021
- As a Senior Process Engineer reporting to both the Coal Processing Engineering Lead and Gas Production Senior Manager, I played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of projects by providing comprehensive technical support and ensuring alignment with quality, cost, and schedule objectives
- Through rigorous review and proactive identification of potential issues, I contribute to resolving shortcomings in project packages, mitigating risks of schedule delays and cost increases
- My strategic thinking is evidenced by my focus on identifying 'killer concerns' and aligning operations and project teams to optimize performance
- Additionally, my technical expertise enables me to provide valuable insights and support during commissioning and integrated plant status meetings
- Through mentoring and coaching, I foster a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing, as demonstrated by the dissemination of learnings from addressing shortcomings in the First Filter AFC package to subsequent projects
Senior Process Engineer (CTFE Project)
SASOL Group Technology
01.2017 - 01.2020
- As the Process Lead Engineer for the Coal Tar Filtration (CTFE) Project, I reported to multiple stakeholders, ensuring adherence to quality, cost, and schedule targets
- Through meticulous control of project scope and proactive identification of cost-saving initiatives, I optimized project outcomes while prioritizing process safety and functionality
- My technical expertise is evident in my ability to conduct in-depth design reviews and resolve start-up issues, such as overdesigned heat exchangers, with innovative and cost-effective solutions
- During the challenging circumstances of the Covid-19 pandemic, I successfully navigated the project through to RFC/RFO stages, demonstrating resilience and adaptability
- My strategic approach involves evaluating design changes for their impact on safety and cost, while also identifying opportunities for value addition and optimization
- Through effective stakeholder management and collaboration, I ensure project success and deliver results even in uncertain times
Engineering Manager/Coordinator (Small Projects Group)
SASOL Group Technology
01.2015 - 01.2017
- As the Engineering Manager/Coordinator for the Small Projects Group, I report to senior managers and lead a multidisciplinary team of engineers in delivering technically sound solutions within the Sasol Synfuels environment
- My responsibilities include developing and executing technical solutions that meet stakeholder needs, managing project timelines and budgets, and ensuring adherence to Sasol specifications and shutdown scopes
- Through effective leadership and coordination, I've successfully delivered Basic Engineering Packages (BEP) on time and within budget, with timely execution of project tie-ins during shutdowns
- My technical skills and proactive approach have enabled the identification and procurement of long leads to meet project schedules
- Additionally, I serve as a crucial link between project managers and the project team, participating in interactive planning sessions to ensure schedule adherence and facilitating communication between stakeholders
Commissioning Engineer (PSA Project)
SASOL Technology
01.2014 - 01.2015
- As the Commissioning Engineer for the Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) Upgrade Efficiency Project, I oversaw catalyst loading, joint integrity, and pre-commissioning procedures, ensuring adherence to schedule and quality standards
- I procured key materials, troubleshooting during start-up, and management of technical resources effectively
- Through proactive management and technical expertise, I successfully commissioned the PSA Plant, achieving breakthrough operation without any technical or process issues, while providing essential support to project stakeholders
Commissioning Engineer (C2+ Recovery Project)
SASOL Technology
01.2013 - 01.2014
- As the Commissioning Engineer for the C2+ Recovery Project, I report to the Project Commissioning Manager, overseeing catalyst loading, start-up modifications, and troubleshooting during commissioning
- I developed and implemented the commissioning plan, managing shifts and technical resources, and ensuring adherence to safety protocols
- My proactive approach and technical expertise led to the identification and resolution of design errors during the commissioning phase, mitigating potential risks and ensuring project success
- Through effective stakeholder management and troubleshooting skills, I contributed to the smooth execution of the project, demonstrating a commitment to quality and safety throughout the commissioning process
Commissioning Engineer (GHHER Project)
SASOL Technology
01.2012 - 01.2013
- As the Commissioning Engineer for the Gas Heated Heat Exchanger Reformer (GHHER) Project, I directly report to the Sasol Synfuels Commissioning Director and lead a team of 2 engineers
- My responsibilities include developing pre-commissioning procedures, quality control plans, and commissioning plans for utility systems
- I efficiently procure key materials and equipment, chaired meetings for potential deviation analysis, and ensure readiness for operation packs are prepared for handover
- With a focus on safety and efficiency, I supervise critical activities such as soap tests, service tests, and system flushing, ensuring adherence to procedures and mitigating safety risks
- My leadership and technical skills have contributed to delivering a clean plant to the business within the required schedule, demonstrating successful commissioning management and stakeholder coordination
Design Engineer (UzGTL Project)
Shaw Stone & Webster
01.2012 - 06.2012
- As a Design Engineer for the Uzbekistan Gas to Liquids (GTL) Project under the Shaw Group, I report to the Fischer Tropsch Technology Manager, spearheading critical tasks such as equipment sizing, specification development, and calculations for various components including reactors and condensate pumps
- My expertise extends to reviewing P&IDs, data sheets, and MCFDs in alignment with project specifications
- Notably, I successfully issued the Basic Engineering Package two months ahead of schedule, achieving significant cost savings through efficient management of billable man-hours
- This experience showcases my technical proficiency, attention to detail, and ability to deliver results in an international project setting, demonstrating valuable skills as a design engineer
Process Engineer (10th SAS Reactor)
SASOL Technology
01.2008 - 01.2012
- As the Lead Process Engineer for the 10th SAS Reactor and BFW Projects, I reported to the Growth Program Chief Engineer and lead a team of 4 Process Engineers throughout the project lifecycle
- My responsibilities span both technical and management tracks, including participation in critical reviews, technical review of engineering packages, and oversight of construction and commissioning activities
- I excel in equipment design checks, development of operational procedures, and coordination of multi-disciplinary teams
- Through strategic management, I ensure adherence to quality plans, interface management, and effective coordination with external contractors
- Notably, my leadership has led to the successful delivery of a Synthol plant, increasing Synfuels output capacity by 10% and enhancing overall turnover
- This achievement underscores my ability to lead projects effectively, demonstrate technical expertise, and manage teams to deliver impactful results
Assistant Process Engineer (PP2 Project)
SASOL Technology
01.2006 - 01.2008
- As an assistant Process Engineer for the Polypropylene 2 Project, I played a pivotal role in various design verifications and calculations, particularly in hydraulic assessments
- Responsibilities included checking hydraulics of propylene feed lines, calculating noise and instrument air receiver venting capacities, and developing a detailed cooling water model using AFT Fathom
- This model proved instrumental in optimizing heat load networks, resulting in significant utility cost savings
- Additionally, I conducted plant check-outs, mechanical box-ups, and provided technical support during start-up, showcasing my expertise in hydraulic calculations and their practical application to enhance operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness
Education
B.Sc. Chemical Engineering Degree (Honours) -
University of KwaZulu Natal
Half Year Programme in Total Quality Management (TQM) - undefined
University Of South Africa
Skills
Fischer Tropsch (FT) Technology
GTL/CTL FT Block
Pre-Commissioning, Commissioning and Start up
Project execution
Natural Gas Plant and unit operations
EC Management Abilities
Ability to work within and IMT/PMT
Flow sheet (PFD/MFD) development
Knowledge of Sasol Gas Circuit
Reforming knowledge
Vendor Management Abilities
Process Team Management Abilities
Ability to Lead a Mega Projects
Ability to relate well to others and establish good working relationships
Able to evaluate complex problems, develop alternatives and consider their impact on the organisation
Able to handle change and adapt to new situations
Able to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a team environment
Able to see opportunities and to set and achieve goals
Active and dynamic approach to work and getting things done
Excellent internal and external negotiation skills with ability to engage and influence clients
Focus on accuracy and attention to detail
Team player, good motivation and collaboration skills
Willing to learn and adapt to changing environments
Visio
AFT Fathom
AFT Arrow
Aspen Technology
Flownex
SAP
References
Tshifhiwa Musetsho (Sasol Engineering Manager)
tshifhiwa.musetsho@sasol.com
+2783 650 1378
Paul Loock (Sasol Senior Manager Technical Gas Production)
paul.loock@sasol.com
+2772 384 4422
Deepak Ramsunkar (Loss Prevention Engineer at Aramco)
dramsunkar@gmail.com
Anup Parshotam (Portfolio Management at Aramco)
anup.parshotam@gmail.com
Personal Information
- Age: 40
- Gender: Male
- Nationality: South African/Indian
Timeline
Senior Process Engineer (Coal Processing Unit)
SASOL OPERATIONS
01.2020 - 01.2021
Senior Process Engineer (CTFE Project)
SASOL Group Technology
01.2017 - 01.2020
Engineering Manager/Coordinator (Small Projects Group)
SASOL Group Technology
01.2015 - 01.2017
Commissioning Engineer (PSA Project)
SASOL Technology
01.2014 - 01.2015
Commissioning Engineer (C2+ Recovery Project)
SASOL Technology
01.2013 - 01.2014
Commissioning Engineer (GHHER Project)
SASOL Technology
01.2012 - 01.2013
Design Engineer (UzGTL Project)
Shaw Stone & Webster
01.2012 - 06.2012
Process Engineer (10th SAS Reactor)
SASOL Technology
01.2008 - 01.2012
Assistant Process Engineer (PP2 Project)
SASOL Technology
01.2006 - 01.2008
Half Year Programme in Total Quality Management (TQM) - undefined
University Of South Africa
Senior Process Engineer (Clean Fuels Project)
SASOL Project and Engineering
1 2021 - Current
B.Sc. Chemical Engineering Degree (Honours) -
University of KwaZulu Natal
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