Derrick VonGunster

I am currently employed as the General Manager - Constructions where I manage multiple projects from pre-tender to completion. In addition to liaising with consultants, contractors, and vendors to meet client or organizational requirements, I also hold responsibility for the division's profit and loss (P&L) management. By closely monitoring project progress, addressing potential issues, and emphasizing quality assurance, I ensure successful project delivery within agreed timelines and budgets. My role encompasses strong project management, stakeholder coordination, and a focus on meeting client expectations while managing the financial performance of the division.

Suhail Bahwan is a diversified conglomerate involved in various sectors, including automobiles, travel and tourism, pharma, hospitality, construction, IT, and telecom. I successfully managed four construction projects valued at over US$2 billion. With a team of engineers, quantity surveyors, and draughtsman, I ensured timely and cost-effective project completion. I reduced construction costs by 7-8% through negotiations and operational improvements. Additionally, I oversaw maintenance for 50 buildings, reducing annual costs by 15-20%. Notable projects included a US$1.3 billion mixed-development, two refurbishments, a steel yard, a farm, a luxury villa, and a hospital MRI room.

In addition to project management and maintenance oversight, I actively participated in budget preparation and the raising of capital expenditures (CAPEX) for various initiatives. This involved conducting thorough financial analysis, assessing project requirements, and presenting comprehensive budget proposals to senior management.

My extensive experience within Suhail Bahwan demonstrates a strong track record in managing large-scale projects, reducing costs, overseeing maintenance operations, and actively contributing to budgeting and capital expenditure decisions.

In my role as the Head of the Projects & Maintenance Department, I have successfully led and managed various projects while ensuring the fulfillment of client and organizational requirements. I have consistently prioritized completing projects and maintenance works within designated timelines and budgets.

Responsible for overseeing all aspects of projects from inception to completion, I have effectively managed a team of Project Engineers, Site Engineers, Quantity Surveyors, Supplies Officers, and Maintenance staff, including an Assistant Manager for Facility Management (FM).

Some notable projects I have completed include the refurbishment of a 5-star hotel, the construction of heavy vehicle body fabrication shops, the construction of staff accommodation buildings, and the establishment of modern showrooms for group companies in new locations.

In addition to project management, I have been responsible for organizing and managing the preventive maintenance of approximately 110 properties. This includes implementing proactive measures to ensure the upkeep and functionality of the properties under my supervision.

Throughout my role, I have consistently demonstrated strong leadership, effective team management, and a commitment to meeting client expectations. By overseeing projects and maintenance works while adhering to budgets and timelines, I have delivered successful outcomes within the Projects & Maintenance Department.

Headed the Project division and managing of multiple projects organize, plan
& direct the project execution team to achieve the company goals & targets
entrusted to the division
Projects Completed
Commercial & Residential buildings
Warehouses
Prefab factory buildings
Luxury villas