Get to know our new Project Manager: UK Pact, Samuel Pillay
What is your background expertise and how does it relate to your role here at GreenCape?
I have 6+ years’ experience in managing projects with the academic and Not-for- Profit spheres of work. I have worked in a range of project portfolios including; water quality, land degradation, heavy metals, wetland conservation, plastics, value chain research and Geographical Information Sciences (GIS).
I hold an MSc in Environmental Sciences and I am currently completing a GPC in Project Management. Before joining GreenCape, I worked at Sustainable Seas Trust as a Lead Project Coordinator – which links well with my current key areas of performance.
What has been your favourite thing about GreenCape so far?
The work environment at GreenCape is dynamic and inviting. The staff morale is very high and that is definitely attributed to the
amazing work environment and the relaxed office vibe that just helps everyone thrive. The GreenCapers (my colleagues) are a bunch of intelligent and talented individuals that are ever ready to assist with any work related task and even personal aspects (like helping me pick the best places to stay). The working relations are conducive to GreenCapes’ values as a team. The management style is inclusive and there’s a lot of support for the newbies.
What project have you been working on as you start your role here at GreenCape?
I have been working on the UK PACT South African programme which is an extension of the South African Renewable Energy Masterplan (SAREM) as well as the Alternative Service Delivery and Climate Adaptation Approaches across local, national and regional stakeholder audiences. I am enjoying just about every project work package and have a vested interested in developing strong engagement platforms to further strengthen GreenCape’s reach.
What impact do you hope to achieve?
From a professional perspective, I want to establish connections with industry sectors in order to maintain a thriving trajectory as a specialist in the green economy. I want to make an impact in the spheres of sustainability, energy and waste research. On a personal level, I want to see a progression from Project to Portfolio Manager.
What do you get up to in your spare time?
Basically I am a workaholic, and I am doing my best to develop a good work life balance by taking on some outdoor activities to maintain a healthy mind and body. starting now to be an outdoor person. However, on the spiritual side, I am actively involved in church; particularly with the church choir and other church programmes. I also just like to chill, shoot some pool or watch a good movie. When I finally settle in Cape Town, I am going to start a garden as part of spending more time outdoors.
Two trues and one lie – (your guess)
- I have been a jail-bird
- In the 3 years of my undergrad, I only attended 2 years of it
- I am a perfectionist (more like OCD)
