Head of Construction

The Client

Onsite Building Systems, also known as Onsite-ICF, is a social enterprise committed to revolutionizing affordable construction for stronger communities. We believe that everyone deserves a high-quality, dignified home. By challenging conventional building methods, we have developed an innovative wall system using onsite-fabricated polyurethane foam construction blocks. This technology allows us to build high-performing, energy-efficient structures at an accessible price point, serving both the social and commercial sectors. Our passion is to make a tangible difference in people's lives through every project we undertake.

The Role

We are seeking a visionary and results-driven Head of Construction to lead our entire construction and project management portfolio. This is a senior leadership role for a professional who is not only a skilled builder but also a forward-thinking innovator with an entrepreneurial spirit. You will be responsible for overseeing the successful implementation of all turnkey projects, driving technology adoption, balancing profitability with social impact, and leading a dynamic team. The ideal candidate will be open to new ways of working, decisive in their approach, and deeply aligned with our mission of putting good housing within reach.

Key Responsibilities

1. Project Implementation and Leadership

• Provide decisive leadership for all construction projects, from concept to completion, ensuring quality, cost-effectiveness, and timely delivery.

• Directly manage and mentor an in-house team of project managers, quantity surveyors, designers, and architects.

• Foster a collaborative environment, effectively coordinating with external consultants and licensed builder networks to ensure seamless project execution.

• Champion best practices and a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring innovative ideas are fully implemented and sustained.

2. Technology Adoption & Strategic Innovation

• Serve as the primary driver for integrating our innovative ICF technology with all aspects of construction.

• Actively seek out and evaluate new construction technologies and methodologies that can enhance our value proposition.

• Work to avoid traditional thinking and over-engineering, focusing on elegant, efficient designs that meet and exceed standards without unnecessary complexity or cost.

• Balance the need for affordability with the imperative for quality, ensuring our products are both high-value and sustainable.

3. Financial Management & Social Impact

• Lead the cost estimation and pricing strategy for all projects, balancing our social enterprise mission with financial sustainability.

• Identify opportunities for cross-funding, leveraging commercial projects with higher margins to support our affordable housing initiatives.

• Ensure all projects are profitable enough to allow the company to reinvest in its mission and continue to grow its social impact.

• Maintain a keen eye on our profit-and-loss statements without compromising our commitment to quality and social responsibility.

4. Partner & Team Development

• Identify, certify, and manage a network of subcontractors and licensed builders to expand our operational capacity and reach.

• Recruit, train, and develop a high-performing construction team that is aligned with the company’s vision and values.

• Cultivate a culture of accountability, integrity, and passion for our mission.

Skills & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field.

• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in the construction industry.

• Experience with social enterprises or in the affordable housing sector is a significant plus.

• A strong track record of successful construction project management, with a keen technical aptitude and a willingness to become an expert in our ICF technology.

• A natural leader with exceptional problem-solving skills and the ability to make confident, well-informed decisions.

• An entrepreneurial mindset—comfortable in a fast-paced, high-growth startup environment where self-initiative is key.

• A deep understanding of the East African affordable housing sector, with a compassionate perspective on the communities we serve.

• Excellent communication and negotiation skills in English and local languages, with the ability to convey complex ideas to a variety of audiences.

• Strong character, compassion, and a genuine passion for making a difference in the lives of those we serve.

• Must possess a valid Class ABC driver’s license.

• Ability to travel extensively within Kenya and East Africa.