General Manager - Construction (Expatriate)

Job Introduction

Adexen is mandated by a leading African conglomerate to recruit a General Manager for its new Construction Division to capture opportunities in infrastructure, industrial, and commercial projects. The position is based in Lagos.

Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

The General Manager will act as the businee builder within the group, responsible for setting up and scaling the new unit into a market leader. This is an intrapreneurial leadership role combining the autonomy and accountability of a business founder with the resources and backing of a large Group.

 

Business Leadership

• Lead the setup, launch, and scale-up of the Construction Division.
• Define and implement the strategic and operational roadmap, aligned with Group priorities.
• Take full P&L ownership and ensure sustainable growth and profitability.
• Drive business development, identify new project opportunities, and secure contracts across Africa.
• Build strong client, government, and partner relationships to enhance market positioning.

 

Project & Operational Management

• Oversee end-to-end project execution, from bidding to delivery.
• Establish systems for budgeting, forecasting, cost control, and risk management.
• Direct procurement, equipment utilization, and subcontractor/vendor management.
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and to international quality standards.
• Enforce HSE standards and compliance with regulatory frameworks.

 

People & Culture

• Recruit, develop, and lead a multidisciplinary and multicultural team.
• Create a culture of ownership, accountability, and intrapreneurship within the division.
• Promote innovation, sustainability, and technology adoption in construction practices.

 

Stakeholder Engagement

• Act as the company’s representative with government bodies, financial institutions, and industry stakeholders.
• Build trusted relationships with consultants, architects, engineers, and regulators.
• Advise Group leadership on construction strategy, challenges, and opportunities.

Desired Skills and Experience

• Education:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or related field.

  • MBA/Master’s preferred; PMP certification desirable.

• Experience:

  • 18–20 years’ experience in the construction sector, including 7–10 years in senior executive management.

  • Proven success in launching or scaling new operations/divisions.

  • Track record of delivering large, complex projects across Africa or emerging markets.

  • Strong experience in financial management, cost engineering, and contract administration.

  • Demonstrated ability to manage large multicultural teams and capital-intensive operations.

• Competencies:

  • Strategic thinker with entrepreneurial and commercial drive.

  • Strong negotiation and stakeholder management skills.

  • Hands-on leader able to combine vision with execution.

  • Adaptable to complex, fast-changing, and multicultural environments.

We thank all applicants however only those selected will be contacted.