Project Manager

The primary objective is to ensure that all aspects of the student transportation program are thoroughly planned, coordinated, and executed to meet the Day 1 readiness criteria. This includes overseeing logistics, ensuring safety standards, coordinating with service providers and stakeholders, managing risks, and reporting on progress. The role requires strategic planning, proactive issue resolution, and effective communication to ensure that transportation runs smoothly from the first day of school.

Job Description & Responsibilities:

1. Project Planning and Coordination
   • Develop detailed project plans for student transportation readiness, including timelines, scope, resource allocation, and risk mitigation strategies.
   • Coordinate with transportation providers, MoE departments, and local authorities to ensure alignment with program objectives and compliance with safety regulations.
   • Identify and address dependencies and critical paths to ensure transportation readiness by Day 1.
   • Create and review executive reports and adopt necessary management recommendations.
2. Transportation Operations and Execution
   • Oversee the allocation and readiness of buses, routes, and schedules to meet the needs of students across various locations.
   • Ensure the availability and deployment of qualified drivers and support staff, coordinating with service providers to address gaps.
   • Monitor transportation operations to ensure punctual and safe student pickup and drop-off on Day 1.
   • Collaborate with school administrations to finalize route plans and ensure accessibility for all students, including those with special needs.
3. Stakeholder Engagement and Communication
   • Serve as the primary point of contact for transportation-related stakeholders, including MoE officials, service providers, and parents.
   • Conduct regular meetings with transportation providers to ensure alignment on progress, challenges, and solutions.
   • Develop and distribute clear communication materials, such as route maps, schedules, and guidelines, to schools and parents.
4. Risk and Issue Management
   • Identify potential risks to transportation readiness, such as route conflicts, vehicle shortages, or safety concerns.
   • Develop and implement mitigation strategies to address risks proactively.
   • Maintain a risk register and ensure timely resolution of issues to minimize disruptions.
5. Compliance and Safety Assurance
   • Ensure all transportation operations adhere to national safety standards and MoE guidelines.
   • Oversee safety inspections of vehicles and monitor driver compliance with safety protocols.
   • Implement contingency plans for emergencies, such as vehicle breakdowns or route disruptions.
6. Monitoring and Reporting
   • Track and monitor transportation readiness progress, ensuring milestones are met on time.
   • Prepare and present detailed reports on transportation operations, including KPIs, risks, and resolutions, to program leadership.
   • Conduct post-Day 1 evaluations to identify areas for improvement in future transportation plans.
7. Continuous Improvement and Innovation
   • Incorporate lessons learned from previous transportation projects to enhance future planning and execution.
   • Explore and implement innovative transportation solutions, including route optimization technologies and sustainable practices.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Transportation Management, Logistics, Project Management, or a related field. A master's degree is a plus.
• 10+ years of experience in transportation planning, logistics, or project management.
• Accredited relevant professional certification (e.g., PMP, Safety Management, CCMP, PHR, SPHR).
• Proven track record of managing large-scale transportation operations, preferably in an educational or public-sector setting.
• Strong skills in planning, scheduling, and resource allocation for transportation projects.
• Experience in managing multiple stakeholders and coordinating complex logistics operations.
• Understanding of national transportation safety standards and regulations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively manage stakeholder relationships.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and coordinate with diverse stakeholders.
• A proactive approach to identifying and resolving transportation-related challenges.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and address unforeseen issues quickly.
• Excellent working knowledge of MS Office; program/project management software (MS Project, etc.), and Power BI is a strong advantage.