Pr.Eng Ben Peters B.Eng

Professional Background

Ben Peters is a seasoned professional with an impressive array of qualifications and experience in project, program, and portfolio management. As a Director of Corporate Project, Programme and Portfolio Management at the City of Cape Town, he plays a pivotal role in steering the city towards effective project execution and operational excellence. With a background deeply rooted in engineering and business management, Ben has cultivated a unique expertise that bridges the technical aspects of project management with strategic business acumen.

Throughout his career, Ben has taken on various significant roles, most notably as the former Global Head of the IPMA Smarter Cities Special Interest Group at the International Project Management Association. This position allowed him to contribute to the evolution of project management practices crucial in developing urban environments. His extensive experience includes serving as the Manager of Corporate Project Portfolio Management within the Organizational Performance Management Directorate of the Mayor at the City of Cape Town, where he successfully oversaw multiple complex projects contributing to the city’s growth and sustainability.

Ben’s career journey began with foundational roles at ProjectWay Consulting and Contracting, where he honed his skills as a Project Manager and Project Controller. His roles at ProjectWay provided him with a robust understanding of project lifecycles and the nuances of ensuring successful project delivery. He quickly advanced through the ranks due to his demonstrated expertise in managing resources efficiently, communicating effectively with stakeholders, and maintaining stringent quality standards.

Education and Achievements

Ben Peters has a strong academic foundation that supports his extensive professional repertoire. He has earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) specializing in Business Administration and Management from the esteemed Edinburgh Business School at Heriot-Watt University. This advanced degree complements his technical background in engineering and demonstrates his commitment to continuous learning and leadership in the field of management.

Prior to his MBA, Ben completed a Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Engineering Honours, followed by a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of Pretoria. This solid educational background in engineering provides him with the analytical skills and practical knowledge required to tackle complex project challenges in various settings.

Ben’s professional certifications further signify his dedication to excellence in project management. He is a certified PR.Eng (Professional Engineer), PMP (Project Management Professional), and Pr.CPM (Professional Construction Manager), showcasing his broad competencies and adherence to internationally recognized standards in project management and engineering.

Notable Achievements

Ben’s contributions to the field of project management extend beyond his professional roles. His leadership in establishing frameworks for smarter city initiatives reflects his vision for sustainable urban development. His tenure at the International Project Management Association (IPMA) highlights his commitment to advancing the discipline of project management on a global scale.

As Director of Corporate Project, Programme and Portfolio Management, Ben has successfully led projects that require strategic foresight, meticulously planning, and strong stakeholder engagement. He has an impressive track record of implementing performance management systems that enhance organizational effectiveness at the City of Cape Town. His ability to drive systemic improvements and foster collaborative environments has made a significant impact on local governance and project efficiency.

With a passion for mentorship and knowledge sharing, Ben is also known for guiding emerging professionals in the project management field, encouraging them to pursue excellence in their careers. Through his experiences, he exemplifies the power of combining technical know-how with strategic insights to deliver outstanding results in any project or program setting.