Anzana Electric Group’s portfolio company, Weza Power is seeking a highly analytical, meticulous and hands-on HSES Director, of a new utility company with the goal of accelerating electrification across rural Burundi.
About Weza Power
Weza Power is a new electricity distribution utility in Burundi, created from the unique, large-scale Public-Private-Partnership with the Government of Burundi in the form of a long-term design-build-finance-operate-transfer concession. Weza Power’s goal is to accelerate electrification across Burundi through the rapid expansion of the electricity distribution network, inline with the government’s target of up to 70% (or more) of the population with grid access by 2030.
About the Role
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced HSES Director to lead and strengthen our organisation’s Health & Safety (H&S) performance as a core business priority, while ensuring alignment with environmental and social sustainability commitments.
The successful candidate will be accountable for establishing a world-class safety culture, driving proactive risk management, and ensuring the effective implementation of Health, Safety, Environmental & Social (HSES) Management Systems are complied with in the field during construction.
The candidate’s role will include maintaining oversight of environmental and social governance, to protect people, prevent incidents, and embed safety excellence across all operations.
The role requires full professional fluency in both French and English, enabling effective communication across a diverse workforce and with external stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
Health & Safety Leadership (Primary Focus)
Lead and take full accountability for Health, Safety, Environment and Social performance during construction of electricity and associated infrastructure.
Develop and implement a comprehensive HSES strategy and risk management framework
Drive a zero-harm culture through leadership engagement and behavioural safety programs
Ensure compliance with occupational health & safety legislation, company standards, and international best practices (ISO 45001)
Oversee incident prevention, investigation, and root cause analysis to drive continuous improvement
HSES Governance & Systems
Develop, implement, and continuously improve HSES management systems, policies, and procedures
Ensure alignment with Group requirements and international standards (e.g., ISO 14001, ISO 45001, IFC Performance Standards)
Monitor and report on HSES KPIs, with strong emphasis on safety performance indicators
Risk Management & Assurance
Establish and maintain a robust risk identification and mitigation framework
Lead internal audits, inspections, and assurance processes
Ensure effective contractor and project HSES risk management
Leadership & Capability Development
Lead, mentor, and develop the HSES team and H&S officers
Provide technical guidance and coaching to operational leaders
Deliver training and awareness programs in both French and English to ensure organisation-wide understanding and compliance
Environmental & Social (Supporting Focus)
Oversee implementation of the Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF)
Ensure environmental compliance and responsible resource management
Support delivery of Environmental & Social Impact Assessments (ESIAs)
Maintain relationships with regulators, communities, and NGOs
Stakeholder Engagement & Communication
Engage effectively with internal and external stakeholders in both French and English
Provide regular executive-level reporting on H&S risks and performance
Support HSES disclosures and sustainability reporting
and social sustainability, advising senior management on potential opportunities and risks.
Minimum Requirements
Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Environmental management, Social ciences, or a related field.
Work Experience: Minimum of 12 years of experience in environmental and social management and preferably within the energy sector or related industries.
HSES Managerial Experience: Proven track record of leading HSES teams and managing complex projects in multicultural environments.
Communication: Must demonstrate effective communication, interpersonal skills and professionalism at all levels. Excellent communication skills in both French and English (both written and verbal), with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
Professional certifications: Certifications in the HSE field (e.g. NEBOSH, Environmental Professional, Social Impact Assessment Practitioner) are an advantage.
Computer Skills: Experience with word processing computer programs, e-mail systems, internet search engines, and general computer literacy is required.
Other Desired Skills:
Strong understanding of environmental regulations, international standards (e.g., ISO 45001, IFC Performance Standards), and best practices in sustainability.
Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on driving continuous improvement and innovation.
Detail-oriented and meticulous; Outstanding attention to detail and observation ability.
Strong interpersonal skills, communication skills, and a can-do attitude.
Ability to manage and resolve conflict.
Demonstrated commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainable development goals.
Benefits
Competitive salary commensurate with experience
Health insurance and retirement benefits
Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
Dynamic and inclusive work environment with a focus on collaboration and innovation
If you are passionate about making a positive impact on the environment and society while contributing to the success of a leading energy company, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Please submit your resume and cover letter in English and French outlining your relevant experience and qualifications. We look forward to hearing from you!
As an equal opportunity employer, we are committed to building a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds. We are committed to improving gender diversity across our workforce and encourage qualified women to apply. Selection decisions are made fairly and based on merit, skills, experience, and job requirements.
Application Instructions:
Please send your resume and cover letter to Nicus.durieux@anzana.com and careers@wezapower.com indicating "HSES Director Application" in the subject line.
Note: Only Short-listed Candidates will be contacted