Economic Development Manager - Ngodwana Energy

Sappi Southern Africa

Country: South Africa

Ngodwana Energy is driving climate-smart renewable energy as the first biomass project under South Africa's Renewable Independent Power Producer Programme. Guided by integrity and courage, we prioritise safety, responsibility, and long-term value while fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.

We are seeking an experienced Economic Development Manager to ensure compliance with REIPPP and Implementation Agreement obligations, drive impactful economic and socio-economic development strategies, and build strong stakeholder relationships across Ngodwana and the surrounding region.

• Analyse community needs, challenges, and priorities
• Develop ED strategies aligned to business objectives and regional needs
• Monitor compliance with IA economic development obligations
• Develop and track ED scorecards, trends, and performance against targets
• Optimise strategies and processes to support business performance
• Prepare reports and presentations with insights and recommendations
• Set project objectives, budgets, and timelines with management
• Review and improve ED processes, tools, and methods

• Manage community relationships and stakeholder expectations
• Co-develop the Economic Development plan with internal and community stakeholders
• Engage stakeholders regularly to monitor progress and review plans annually
• Manage stakeholder expectations and participate in engagement forums
• Support local procurement and SME participation
• Identify stakeholder risks and implement mitigation strategies

• Conduct needs analysis and compile progress reports with stakeholders
• Develop and implement approved SED and ED initiatives
• Collate monthly reporting data and supporting evidence
• Prepare reports for IPP Office, lenders, and board
• Ensure compliance with IA, PPA, and regulations
• Stay updated on legislative and industry changes
• Respond to IPPO queries and requests
• Prepare and manage the Annual ED Plan
• Collaborate with project managers during key project phases
• Oversee project delivery within scope, time, and budget
• Manage annual ED audits and resolve audit queries

• 5+ years' ED experience (3+ years in SA renewable energy industry preferred)
• Management/supervisory experience advantageous
• Strong knowledge of REIPPP, ED scorecards, and best practices
• Proven project management, monitoring & evaluation, and stakeholder engagement skills
• Valid driver's licence & own reliable vehicle

Join us to make a meaningful, lasting impact in the Ngodwana community.

Sappi is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. At Sappi, we encourage and support vaccination.

Sappi isa leading global provider of everyday materials made from woodfibre-based renewable resources. As a diversified, innovative and trusted leader focused on sustainable processes and products, we are building a more circular economy by making what we should, not just what we can.