Charles Kirton

Seasoned Construction Manager with more than 15 years of experience delivering large-scale renewable energy and infrastructure projects across South Africa and Africa. Proven expertise in construction management, project planning, logistics, commissioning, stakeholder management, and multidisciplinary team leadership. Demonstrated success in managing utility-scale solar PV projects exceeding 1GW of combined installed capacity, including fixed-tilt, tracker, hybrid, and BESS installations.

Strong track record of delivering projects safely, on schedule, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. Recognised for implementing effective construction methodologies, improving operational efficiencies, and leading multicultural teams in complex project environments. Contributed to the successful delivery of the Bokamoso Solar Plant, which achieved over 1,000,000 Lost Time Injury (LTI) free hours.

Construction Manager/Owners representative - Energy Group - Northam Platinum Mine, South Africa

(2025-01)

• Lead all construction activities for a large-scale tracker solar installation including the following: Site establishment and clearance, Perimeter fencing, Internal roads and drainage, Substructure and Module installation, multiple building and substation construction, 6km Overhead line (33kVA).
• Manage project execution, safety, quality, scheduling, subcontractors, EPC and stakeholder engagement.
• Ensure project delivery.

Construction Manager - NexEnergy - Virginia Solar Project, South Africa

(2024-02 - 2024-12)

• Directed construction operations for a utility-scale tracker installation.
• Managed multidisciplinary teams, subcontractors, quality, safety, and programme performance.
• Maintained project milestones and budget objectives.

Construction Manager - Unigreen Engineering - Postmasburg Solar Project, South Africa

(2022-11 - 2024-02)

• Managed pre-construction and construction planning activities.
• Coordinated engineering, procurement, and construction interfaces.
• Delivered project objectives in accordance with client and EPC requirements.

Senior (Lead) Mechanical Construction Supervisor - JUWI Renewable Energies - Sukari Gold Mine, Egypt

(2021-03 - 2022-10)

Led construction planning and execution activities for a 36MW Hybrid BESS Project.

• Led construction planning and execution activities.
• Managed subcontractors, suppliers, and commissioning resources.
• Ensured compliance with quality, safety, environmental, and contractual requirements.
• Developed work procedures, inspection plans, and quality control documentation.
• Coordinated client inspections and project reporting.
• Managed schedule performance, NCR implementation, and corrective actions.
• Ensured achievement of project milestones and payment targets.

Construction Manager - PiA Solar - South Africa and Southern Africa

(2013-05 - 2020-12)

• Managed multiple solar PV EPC projects throughout South Africa and Southern Africa.
• Oversaw civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, and commissioning activities.
• Managed project schedules, budgets, quality assurance, and site operations.
• Coordinated subcontractors, suppliers, consultants, and client representatives.
• Developed construction methodologies, user manuals, and reporting systems.
• Conducted site inspections and implemented corrective actions.

Construction Manager - PiA Solar - Bokamoso Solar Plant, South Africa

(2019-02 - 2020-08)

• Directed full EPC construction execution from mobilisation through commissioning and handover.
• Implemented KPI systems and performance monitoring processes.
• Managed project risk and compliance requirements.
• Successfully delivered project milestones while maintaining SHEQ compliance.

REIPPP Project Planner & Site Start-Up - PiA Solar - South Africa

(2018-07 - 2019-01)

• Supported project mobilisation and construction planning activities.
• Developed construction execution strategies.
• Prepared progress reports and project documentation.
• Ensured compliance with industry standards and regulations.

Project / Construction Manager - PiA Solar - Multiple locations

(2017-01 - 2018-06)

• Tambuti, Eswatini – 800kWp
• Tshikondeni Mine – 1MWp
• Rosh Pinah, Namibia – 7MWp
• ACSA Kimberley – 500kWp
• ACSA Upington – 500kWp

Logistics Manager - PiA Solar - Prieska PV3 Project, South Africa

(2015-06 - 2017-02)

• Managed site logistics and supply chain operations.
• Coordinated procurement, warehousing, transportation, and inventory management.
• Implemented logistics tracking and reporting systems.
• Controlled incoming inspections and goods receiving processes.

Logistics Manager - PiA Solar - De Aar Phase 3 Project, South Africa

(2013-06 - 2015-05)

• Managed all site logistics operations.
• Coordinated supplier and subcontractor deliveries.
• Ensured efficient stock control and warehouse management.

Construction Head - Novo Domus Construction

(2011-01 - 2013-12)

Branch Manager - Build It, Port Edward

(2010-01 - 2011-12)

Management - Hardware Warehouse

(2006-01 - 2010-12)

Business Owner - THK Joinery

(2002-01 - 2005-12)

Diploma - Human Resource Management - South African Institute of Business Management

National Senior Certificate - Dale College, King William's Town, South Africa