I'm Steven vd Merwe
Construction Project Manager
Profile
Steven vd Merwe
Construction Project Manager
Welcome to my professional portfolio.
I am Steven van der Merwe, a construction project manager with over 15 years of hands-on experience delivering residential, commercial, and renovation projects across Gauteng. My career has been built on strong planning, disciplined execution, and clear leadership on site — ensuring projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and to a high standard of quality.
I take pride in managing projects from early planning through to final handover, coordinating multidisciplinary teams, suppliers, and stakeholders to achieve practical and well-executed outcomes. With a solid understanding of construction methodology, supply chain management, and design intent, I am able to bridge the gap between planning, execution, and finished detail.
This portfolio serves as a showcase of my experience, project involvement, and professional approach to construction project management. It reflects my commitment to accountability, continuous improvement, and adding long-term value to the teams and organisations I work with.
Resume
Resume
About Me
I seek a long-term position in a company where I would be able to
apply the experience and skills I have acquired in my capacity as
both an employer and an employee in my career.
I am hungry to invest my knowledge in a sector I am passionate
about and would like to be part of a dynamic company where my
skills can be put to good use. I believe that I have the appropriate
hardworking characteristics and capabilities to be a valuable asset to
a company, also due to extensive, wide knowledge of Construction
Industry. Where criticism is due, I am able to receive it well and
have a willingness to change and improve.
Education
1997 - 2001
Built a strong foundation in discipline, responsibility, and critical thinking. Active involvement in leadership, service, and cultural activities helped shape a structured work ethic and early leadership skills that continue to influence my professional approach.
2003 - 2005
Developed a strong understanding of design principles, spatial awareness, and visual communication. This background enhances my ability to interpret drawings, engage effectively with designers and architects, and ensure that design intent is accurately translated into built form.
2023
Strengthened my formal project management capability with structured methodologies in planning, cost control, risk management, quality assurance, and stakeholder coordination. This qualification reinforced industry best practices and aligned my practical experience with professional standards.
Current Studies
Currently expanding my expertise through internationally recognised project management frameworks. This ongoing certification supports continuous professional development and enhances my ability to manage complex construction projects with improved governance, consistency, and accountability.
Employment
Nov 2024 - Dec 2025
As Project Manager at Silvanus Flooring, I oversaw the full installation lifecycle across a fast-paced environment with 8 installation teams delivering flooring projects ranging from 1-day to 3-month durations. I coordinated daily schedules, ensured material readiness, managed client expectations, and solved on-site issues to keep projects on track.
Key Responsibilities:
Managed the full project lifecycle of high-end residential and commercial flooring projects from planning through to handover.
Implemented structured project management systems to improve planning, coordination, and reporting.
Coordinated closely with clients, architects, designers, and subcontractors to control scope, budget, and timelines.
Developed detailed project plans including material take-offs, cost estimates, and installation schedules.
Key Achievements:
Introduced a formal project framework that improved workflow clarity and site coordination.
Successfully delivered premium flooring projects requiring high levels of finish, precision, and client satisfaction.
Strengthened stakeholder relationships through clear communication and consistent project reporting.
Apr 2023 - Oct 2024
As Senior Site Manager at Viridicon, I led the end-to-end management of both commercial and residential construction projects. This included planning, resource allocation, compliance, risk management, stakeholder coordination, and daily site supervision to ensure projects were delivered safely, on time, and to specification.
Key Responsibilities:
Led site operations for high-end commercial and institutional construction projects.
Acted as Site Director and primary liaison between contractors, consultants, and clients.
Managed programme changes, site logistics, and daily construction activities within defined financial parameters.
Prepared and issued regular progress reports, coordinating information flow between contractors and clients.
Key Achievements:
Maintained high construction quality standards under tight deadlines and complex site conditions.
Played a key role in managing project changes without compromising safety or programme delivery.
Earned trust from management through reliable site leadership and minimal supervision requirements.
Apr 2018 – Oct 2022
As COO at STEP Building Supplies, I oversaw the full operations and supply chain management for a fast-growing materials supplier. I led procurement, logistics, warehousing, pricing, and client service, ensuring the efficient flow of products from suppliers to customers. My role focused on driving operational excellence, improving systems, and maintaining strong supplier and client relationships.
Key Responsibilities:
Oversaw day-to-day operations including sales, technical support, logistics, and e-commerce fulfilment.
Served as head buyer, managing multi-category procurement and supplier relationships.
Evaluated vendors and negotiated pricing to ensure cost efficiency and reliable supply.
Key Achievements:
Optimised supply chain processes to support consistent product availability and customer satisfaction.
Improved procurement strategies through structured supplier evaluation and price negotiation.
Gained strong commercial and supply chain management expertise transferable to construction projects.
CBS Home Services 101
Project Director
Dec 2008 – Apr 2018
As Projects Director at CBS Home Services, I managed all small-scale construction and renovation projects, handling the project scope from initial planning to completion. I ensured that every project was delivered on time, within budget, and to the company’s quality standards, while providing hands-on supervision and clear communication to both clients and teams.
Key Responsibilities:
Managed end-to-end delivery of residential renovation and maintenance projects.
Acted as central liaison between architects, contractors, suppliers, and clients.
Oversaw subcontractors, quality control, and hands-on technical installations where required.
Key Achievements:
Delivered numerous luxury home renovation projects to high quality and finish standards.
Built a strong portfolio of evidence demonstrating successful project delivery across multiple disciplines.
Developed strong client relationship and stakeholder management skills over a decade-long tenure.
Gusto Carpentry Services
Project Manager
May 2008 – Nov 2008
At Gusto Carpentry Services, I oversaw carpentry projects from initial client engagement through to final installation. My responsibilities included managing site teams, maintaining quality control standards, conducting regular inspections, and acting as the primary point of contact for clients. I was also involved in sales support and contributed to marketing initiatives aimed at building brand awareness. This role strengthened my ability to manage projects end-to-end while balancing client expectations, workmanship quality, and operational efficiency.
Key Responsibilities:
Managed carpentry projects from initial client engagement through to completion.
Oversaw staff, quality control, site inspections, and client communication.
Contributed to marketing strategies and brand awareness initiatives through presentations and client engagement.
Key Achievements:
Improved project oversight and quality consistency through structured site inspections.
Supported business growth by strengthening client confidence and brand visibility.
Feb 2003 – Apr 2008
At Van Acht, I provided expert sales support for premium wooden doors and windows. My role involved advising clients on the best solutions for their homes and projects, interpreting technical specifications, and ensuring correct product selection. I combined strong product knowledge with quality client service to drive sales and strengthen customer confidence.
Key Responsibilities:
Provided shopfront sales support and technical advice to clients and contractors.
Assisted with building projects and carpentry order specifications.
Offered installation guidance to ensure correct application of products on site.
Key Achievements:
Built strong product and technical knowledge within the building and carpentry sector.
Developed early client-facing and technical communication skills foundational.
Cee’s Construction
Project Manager
Jan 2002 – Dec 2002
At Cee’s Construction, I managed multiple small to medium-scale construction and electrical projects, coordinating teams, materials, and schedules to ensure smooth project execution. My role required hands-on involvement on site, clear communication with clients and labourers, and practical problem-solving to keep work progressing efficiently. This position provided me with early exposure to full project oversight and laid the foundation for my career in construction project management.
Key Responsibilities:
Managed multiple small-to-medium construction and electrical projects simultaneously.
Coordinated teams, schedules, and materials to ensure timely project delivery.
Key Achievements:
Gained early exposure to multi-project coordination and on-site decision-making.
Established a practical foundation in construction project management principles.
Recognition
Professional Recognition & Business Impact
BNI Networker of the Month Awarded by Business Network International (BNI) for exceptional contribution to the local business chapter. This recognition highlights my commitment to stakeholder engagement, relationship building, and proactive collaboration—essential skills for coordinating diverse teams and subcontractors on complex construction sites.
Specialised Technical Training
Centurion Systems: Full Product Training Comprehensive technical certification covering the installation, configuration, and troubleshooting of advanced access control and automation systems. This training ensures I can oversee the integration of high-end security infrastructure and perimeter automation within residential and commercial projects with technical precision.
Maskam Water: Treatment Plant Training Specialised training in sustainable water management and wastewater treatment systems. This qualification allows me to manage projects involving environmentally conscious infrastructure, including the installation and maintenance of Clivus Multrum and Bio-Microbics systems, ensuring compliance with modern environmental standards.
Foundational Leadership & Service
High School Prefect Selected for a senior leadership role responsible for maintaining discipline, mentoring junior students, and representing the school at official functions. This early exposure to responsibility helped develop the conflict resolution and organisational skills I use today to lead construction teams.
Full Colours for Service The highest level of school recognition awarded for sustained and selfless dedication to the community and school administration. This award reflects my work ethic and my “service-first” approach to project management—ensuring that every client’s needs are prioritised.
Arts & Culture Award Recognized for a significant contribution to creative initiatives and cultural coordination. This highlights my ability to think outside the box and manage the aesthetic and architectural nuances of a project, not just the structural requirements.
Objectives
I am looking for an opportunity to
work as a Project Manager in a
world class construction company.
I enjoy the process of building from
start to finish, and work well as a
leader or guide through the whole
process. I have an eye for detail,
and liaise well with all
stakeholders to ensure suitable
solutions for a successful project.
Knowledge & Proficiency
Project Management Skills
Core Strengths
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Stakeholder liaison and management
- Strategic thinking, and self-motivation to obtain foresight
- Extensive knowledge of Construction Management
- Good leadership, time, and management skills
- Great planning, overview, and Execution skills
- Hunger for Personal Development, and Training
Language Skills
Future Aspirations and Career Goals
I seek a long-term position in a company where I can apply the experience and skills I have acquired throughout my career. My goal is to be part of a dynamic organization where I can continue to grow professionally while contributing to the success of the company. I am passionate about the construction industry and eager to invest my knowledge and skills in projects that make a significant impact.
In the future, I aspire to:
Lead Large-Scale Projects: Manage and execute large-scale construction projects that push the boundaries of innovation and sustainability.
Advance Sustainable Practices: Champion the adoption of eco-friendly construction methods and materials to reduce environmental impact.
Mentor and Develop Talent: Guide and mentor the next generation of construction professionals, sharing my knowledge and experience to help them succeed.
Continuous Learning: Stay abreast of the latest industry trends and technologies, continually enhancing my skills to remain at the forefront of the construction industry.
Foster Collaboration: Build strong relationships with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders, ensuring a collaborative approach to project management that drives successful outcomes.
I am committed to maintaining high standards of professionalism and excellence in all my endeavors. I believe that my hardworking nature, extensive industry knowledge, and ability to embrace and act on constructive criticism make me a valuable asset to any company. I look forward to new challenges and opportunities to make a meaningful impact in the construction industry.
Community Outreach
- Volunteer paramedic for Medical Rescue International
- Assist with orphan ministry
- Extensive support & help within sound and visual setup for
Church - Support and backup to CPF & Local RA
Portfolio
Portfolio
Testimonials
Testimonials
Steven reported directly to me at Viridicon Construction and was one of the most reliable site supervisors on my team. He was consistently proactive, well-prepared, and dependable. His strong supplier network and…
Steven is a highly reliable and proactive site supervisor with strong leadership skills and a practical, solutions-driven mindset. His ability to manage projects effectively with minimal oversight sets him apart.
What stood out most was Steven’s ability to manage people, timelines, and challenges without drama. Problems were anticipated rather than reacted to, and the project ran smoothly because of his structured approach.
Contacts
Contacts
Get in Touch with Me
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