Our client, South Rail, is establishing a new private rail freight operations in Botswana and neighbouring countries with a vision to transform rail freight across the region. Through the ongoing investment project, South Rail is developing a service that will redefine how rail logistics operates. South Rail brings a world-class safety and efficiency culture, combined with strong international expertise. You will work alongside experienced global professionals, follow a structured development path, and grow from the project phase into long-term 24/7 operations environment. We are looking for driven, hungry, hands-on leaders who are ready to build something meaningful from the ground up.
This is a high-impact, build-phase leadership role where you will bridge strategy and execution taking a rail freight project from feasibility into full operational readiness and commercial launch. You will play a central role in shaping how the business operates, mobilising resources, and establishing the systems, people, and processes required for a safe, efficient, and reliable rail operation.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Design & Planning (Feasibility Phase): Define and structure the future operating model by translating strategy into a practical, efficient, and executable rail service design.
- Mobilisation & Readiness: Build and coordinate all elements required to transition from planning to execution, ensuring the organisation is fully prepared for operational launch.
- Implementation & Start-Up Execution: Lead the set-up and rollout of operations, including people, systems, and processes, to achieve a successful and controlled commercial start-up.
- Risk & Performance Management: Identify, manage, and mitigate operational risks while establishing performance-driven systems to ensure reliability and continuous improvement.
- Transition to Operations Leadership: Take ownership of the live operation post-launch, driving safety, service delivery, and operational excellence in a 24/7 environment.
Requirements
- You will need a minimum of 8 years’ experience in rail, logistics, terminals, mining supply chains, or similar operational environments.
- Proven experience in mobilisation, start-up, or operational ramp-up.
- Strong execution mindset: you will take ownership and deliver results.
- A practical, field-oriented leader who builds trust with frontline teams.
- Comfortable operating in ambiguity while driving structure and progress.
- A clear communicator able to align teams and stakeholders.
How to Apply
How to Apply: Upload your CV on the website: www.hrmc.co.bw
Closing date for applications: 28 April 2026
Tel: (+267) 395 1640
Mobile: (+267) 75 789 000
Fax: (+267) 391 1494
Email: admin@hrmc.co.bw
LinkedIn: @hrmcbotswana
Closing date for applications: 28 April 2026
Tel: (+267) 395 1640
Mobile: (+267) 75 789 000
Fax: (+267) 391 1494
Email: admin@hrmc.co.bw
LinkedIn: @hrmcbotswana
Job Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
What typical qualifications and certifications are required for a Project Manager – Operational Readiness role in Botswana?
A Bachelor's degree in engineering, logistics, supply chain, or a related field is often required, coupled with relevant project management certifications like PMP or PRINCE2. Extensive experience in project management, particularly within logistics, transportation, or rail operations, is highly valued by employers in Botswana.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for a Project Manager focused on Operational Readiness in a rail cargo environment?
Daily tasks typically involve planning, executing, and monitoring projects to ensure new systems, processes, or infrastructure are ready for live operations within the rail cargo sector. This includes coordinating with various stakeholders, managing project timelines and budgets, and identifying and mitigating operational risks to ensure smooth transitions.
What is the typical work culture and what are key expectations for a Project Manager in Botswana?
Botswana's work culture often emphasizes professionalism, respect, and collaborative problem-solving, with a growing focus on efficiency and digital transformation. Employers expect strong leadership, accountability, and effective communication, especially when dealing with diverse teams and international partners in a critical infrastructure setting.
What are realistic career progression paths for a Project Manager in Operational Readiness in Botswana?
Successful Project Managers can advance to senior project management roles, program management, or portfolio management positions within the transport or logistics sector. Opportunities also exist to transition into strategic operational leadership roles or consultancies focused on efficiency and readiness initiatives across various industries.
What typical benefits, such as leave, medical aid, and pension, can one expect from such a role in Botswana?
Standard benefits generally include annual leave, sick leave, and compassionate leave, as well as contributions to a medical aid scheme and a pension fund as mandated by local regulations or company policy. Some employers may offer additional benefits like group life assurance or professional development allowances.
How should one apply for project management roles in Botswana, and what do employers generally look for?
Applications are typically submitted online through company websites, professional networking platforms like LinkedIn, or local job portals. Employers in Botswana seek candidates with demonstrable project management skills, relevant industry experience, strong problem-solving abilities, and a good understanding of local business practices.