Nico Ignatius Nel

Key Responsibilities:

As Portfolio Manager, I have been responsible for overseeing the execution of multiple large-scale projects across various sectors over the last 5 years. My role involved managing complex construction projects from inception to final handover, ensuring all project milestones were achieved within scope, budget, and timeframes. Below are key projects that highlight my experience and expertise:

• Design and Construction of BP Filling Stations: Managed the full lifecycle of multiple BP filling station projects, including design , construction, and hand over
• TETRA 4 Infrastructure Project: Managed all Civil and Building works on TETRA 4 project.
• High-End Residential Development in the Western Cape: Directed the design and construction of a prestigious residential project comprising 107 units. This project required meticulous attention to quality and client requirements, as well as managing both civil and architectural components.
• Komoa Copper Mine, DRC (Fuel Tanks): Acted as Head Planner and Contracts Manager for the design and construction of fuel tanks at the Komoa Copper Mine in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Responsibilities included managing construction schedules, contract negotiations, and ensuring adherence to strict international mining standards.
• Anglo Critical Surge Project, Rustenburg: Acted as Head Planner for this high-priority project, focusing on time-sensitive construction scheduling and resource allocation to meet the critical infrastructure needs of the Anglo project.
• Transnet TPL Project, Durban Harbour: Lead the Planning and Commercial Team as Head Planner and Contracts Manager on the design and Construction Project for 9 new fuel Tanks situated in on Durban Harbour
• Project Management: Managed all phases of the projects from initial concept and design through to construction and final handover to the client.
• Contract Negotiations: Led contract discussions with clients, contractors, and suppliers, ensuring favorable terms that aligned with project goals and client expectations.
• Team Leadership: Provided leadership to multidisciplinary teams, including architects, engineers, planners, and contractors, to deliver successful project outcomes.
• Risk Management: Identified and mitigated project risks, including those related to budget overruns, delays, and quality control issues.
• Client Engagement: Maintained close relationships with clients, ensuring all project deliverables met their specifications and satisfaction.
• Planning and Scheduling: Acted as Head Planner for various high-value projects, developing and monitoring project schedules to ensure timely delivery.
• Contracts Management: Oversaw contractual obligations and compliance for multiple projects, including the management of variations and claims.

As the Founder and Director of LEAD Developments, a boutique development company, I have successfully overseen the development of over 15 high-end residential housing units since the company’s inception in 2014. My role involves managing all aspects of the business, from project conception and design through to construction, sales, and after-sales service, with a focus on delivering quality homes and ensuring client satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities:

• Project Development: Led the design, planning, and execution of high-end residential housing projects, ensuring adherence to client expectations and industry standards.
• Business Management: Managed the day-to-day operations of the company, including strategic planning, financial oversight, and resource allocation.
• Construction Oversight: Supervised construction processes to ensure high-quality delivery, timely completion, and cost efficiency.
• Client Relations: Developed strong relationships with clients, providing personalized services and exceptional after-sales support.
• Sales & Marketing: Directed the marketing and sale of housing units, ensuring effective promotion and successful contract negotiations.
• Team Leadership: Coordinated with architects, contractors, and suppliers to streamline project delivery and maintain high standards.
• After-Sales Service: Ensured top-tier after-sales support, addressing client needs and maintaining a strong reputation for service excellence.

Project Manager / Principal Agent

Various Housing and Commercial Projects
From Inception to Handover

Responsible for managing a range of multi-story residential buildings, commercial warehouses, shopping centers, and infrastructure projects. Key duties involved overseeing the entire project lifecycle, from planning and design through to construction and final handover.

Key Responsibilities:

• Contract Management: Developed and managed contracts for all professionals involved, ensuring clear terms, adherence to agreements, and smooth project execution.
• Engineering Management: Coordinated multidisciplinary design teams, ensuring seamless collaboration between architects, engineers, and other professionals.
• Construction Management: Supervised construction activities, acting on behalf of the client to ensure projects were delivered on time, within scope, and in line with project objectives.
• Claims Assessment: Reviewed and resolved contractor claims, ensuring fair assessments and maintaining project progress.
• Programme Management: Monitored and reported on project timelines, ensuring progress aligned with the construction schedule.
• Contract Administration: Prepared and administered contracts between clients and contractors, ensuring compliance with terms and successful project delivery.
• Payment Approval: Approved and verified monthly payment certificates, ensuring they accurately reflected project progress and milestones.
• Quality Assurance: Conducted regular inspections and assessments to ensure that construction works met the highest quality standards.
• Cost Management: Controlled project costs throughout the lifecycle, maintaining budget adherence and financial oversight from initiation through to handove

Engineering Manager / Project Manager
Venetia Underground Project (Early Works), Basil Read (PTY) Ltd, Musina, Limpopo (DeBeers Mine)
April 2012 — November 2013

• Design Oversight: Served as Engineering Manager for the design of the decline shaft, underground services, tunnels, and other project-related designs.
• Subcontractor Management: Led the appointment of specialized subcontractors, including the preparation and management of all contract documents.
• Contract Administration: Managed the NEC3 Engineering and Construction contract between Basil Read and DeBeers for the Venetia Underground Project.
• Programme Management: Oversaw the project programme, incorporating delays, claims, and adjustments to ensure accurate scheduling and project alignment.
• Cost Management: Controlled and monitored project costs, ensuring budget adherence and financial efficiency.
• Claims Management: Managed and controlled all construction claims, both for Basil Read and subcontractors, to mitigate risks and financial impacts.
• Procurement Management: Directed the procurement of materials and plant, including the compilation and management of supply contracts.
• Safety and Quality Oversight: Ensured rigorous safety standards and quality control across all work fronts, maintaining compliance with industry regulations and project specifications

Site Agent - Civil and Structural Works
Basil Read (PTY) Ltd, Medupi Power Station
August 2010 — March 2012
Responsible for overseeing all civil and structural works for the Basil Read package at Medupi Power Station.

• Construction Documentation: Developed comprehensive construction documents and managed the construction programme to ensure timely project execution.
• Scope and Contract Management: Prepared scopes of work, Bills of Quantities, and contract documents for subcontracted works, ensuring clarity and compliance.
• Subcontractor Management: Managed subcontractor activities, both programmatically and contractually, to align with project goals and timelines.
• Procurement Oversight: Led the procurement of materials, plant, equipment, and subcontractors, including drafting supply and subcontractor contracts.
• Cost Management: Monitored and controlled costs across all sections of the project, analyzing planned vs. actual costs and assessing the impact of claims from both subcontractors and the main contractor.
• Programme Management: Compiled and updated the project programme bi-weekly, ensuring alignment with project milestones.
• Quality Management: Ensured all works met stringent quality standards, conducting regular inspections and assessments to maintain compliance.
• Safety Standards Compliance: Enforced safety protocols across all work fronts, ensuring adherence to industry and regulatory safety standards.
• Client Liaison: Conducted weekly meetings with the client to discuss claims, programme updates, and any project delays, ensuring clear communication and issue resolution.

Site Agent
Basil Read (PTY) Ltd, BRCD JV N1 Improvements, Pretoria, Gauteng
March 2009 — July 2010

Pre-Cast Yard Manager

• Procurement Management: Coordinated procurement of materials and subcontractors to ensure timely and cost-effective project execution.
• Subcontractor Management: Oversaw on-site subcontractors, ensuring adherence to project schedules, quality standards, and safety protocols.
• Design Office Coordination: Managed the design office for all works related to the pre-cast yard, ensuring accurate and timely design output.
• Construction Documentation: Prepared and reviewed all necessary construction documents, ensuring accuracy and compliance with project requirements.
• Drawing Review: Conducted thorough reviews of construction drawings and documentation to ensure alignment with project specifications.
• Cost Management: Controlled project costs, including managing subcontractor claims, to ensure budget compliance.
• Programme Management: Planned and managed the manufacturing, delivery, and installation schedules to ensure smooth project progression.
• Monthly Reporting: Prepared and presented detailed project reports to the Executive Committee (EXCO) and Project Director, covering progress, costs, and any issues.
• Quality Assurance: Ensured all works met stringent quality standards and complied with relevant regulations and industry standards.

Junior Site Engineer
Basil Read (Pty) Ltd, Mbombela Stadium, Mpumalanga
June 2008 — February 2009

• Work Area Management: Oversaw and managed specific work areas, ensuring tasks were completed according to schedule and quality standards.
• Procurement Coordination: Handled procurement of materials, labor, and subcontractors, including preparing Bills of Quantities (BOQ), revising contracts, and approving invoices and monthly payment certificates.
• Programme and Claim Management: Managed project schedules, including subcontractor programmes and claims, to ensure timely project delivery.
• Subcontractor Oversight: Supervised subcontractors on-site, ensuring compliance with project specifications and safety standards.
• Cost Management and Reporting: Controlled and monitored costs within assigned work areas, providing bi-weekly updates to the Project Quantity Surveyor (QS) and Project Manager.