CEO for East African Power Company

SUMMARY
The Company is a private equity-backed Independent Power Producer (IPP) in East Africa. Current expansion will elevate it to one of the largest thermal power providers in the region. In addition, the Company has fully funded international equity backing to enable implementation of an aggressive growth strategy which would see it become one of Africa’s leading IPPs.
To lead, implement and oversee this growth strategy, a top level CEO is sought. The role is based full-time in East Africa.
The CEO will report directly to the Board of Directors with whom he/she will be responsible for setting and delivering the overall strategy of the Company. The individual will be able to demonstrate a successful track record of managing and building fast-growing process-orientated companies, ideally in the power sector. He or she will have excellent strategic, leadership and people management skills, the ability to drive through change in a challenging environment and considerable experience in Emerging Markets, preferably Africa. In addition, the candidate should have M&A experience.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
o Develop and execute cross-border growth strategy including identifying and executing acquisitions.
o Alongside the COO, drive operational improvements in existing power plants and projects.
o Communicate effectively to the Board and key shareholders.
o Manage, develop and motivate the executive team.
o Advise and lead the negotiation of new projects including contract negotiation (PPA, EPC, O&M and FSAs).
o Delivery of optimal financial and operational performance of business.
o Develop and ensure adequacy of strict internal controls including governance and anti-bribery and corruption.
o Maximise returns on equity.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS
o Proven track record in developing multi-million dollar high growth companies in Emerging Markets, preferably Africa, from entrepreneurial start-up phase to exit of private equity backers.
o Excellent strategic planning and execution skills. Knowledge of contracting, negotiating, financing and implementation of infrastructure, ideally power, projects.
o Strong leadership abilities with ability to drive and deliver results in small entrepreneurial “can-do” environment, developing team and processes.
o Experience of managing multiple stakeholders diplomatically but effectively. Day to day interactions with government officials, local partners, press, suppliers, contractors and shareholders in a complex, political environment.
o Ability to ensure communication to shareholders is handled appropriately and effectively.
o At least ten years of experience as a senior level executive or CEO.
o M&A credentials.
o MBA preferred.

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