Stepping into the realm of project management is an exhilarating venture, brimming with opportunities for growth and challenges that demand a masterful combination of technical prowess, leadership finesse, and a steadfast focus on achieving the ultimate objective. Whether you are a fresh-faced newcomer, eager to carve your path in the industry, or a seasoned professional seeking to elevate your existing skills to new heights, there is much to glean from the expertise of Eng. Jonathan Okundia. With a distinguished career adorned with remarkable achievements in the Oil & Gas industry, he stands as a beacon of success, illuminating the path for aspiring project managers. Join us as we embark on a journey that unravels the keys to triumphant project management, unrivaled in its insights and guidance.
In the ever-evolving landscape of project management, Eng. Jonathan Okundia’s illustrious journey serves as an indispensable compass, navigating the complexities and nuances that define this multifaceted field. With a wealth of experience garnered over two decades, Jonathan’s expertise shines brilliantly as he steers us through the intricacies of executing brown field and green field projects for international Oil giants like ExxonMobil, Shell, and Total. His prowess in successfully orchestrating the construction, revamping, and retrofitting of oil and gas processing facilities, both onshore and offshore, reflects an exceptional combination of technical proficiency and leadership acumen. Furthermore, his resounding success in conducting Mooring, Lift, and Pipe lay analysis with a flawless execution rate is a testament to his unwavering commitment to delivering excellence in every endeavor. As we embark on this transformative journey with Eng. Jonathan Okundia, we shall unravel the essential elements that propel him to the pinnacles of project management, an odyssey teeming with invaluable insights and principles that illuminate the way for all project management enthusiasts.
Having worked with reputable organizations throughout his career, he now serves as a vendor to ExxonMobil, AOS Orwell Limited, and as a Project Management Consultant to Energy link infrastructure (Malta) Limited and Brightwaters Energy Limited.
One of his remarkable projects, taking place in the Niger-delta area of Nigeria, aims to combat crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism by implementing advanced crude oil pipeline security monitoring. His passion for project management extends beyond executing projects; he is also a dedicated coach to project management professionals and project managers, helping them succeed in various fields.
With a Bachelor’s in Engineering and an MBA degree, Jonathan’s journey began at Bouygues Construction during the Nigerian Liquify Natural Gas trains 1, 2, and 3 projects. He worked with Daewoo Engineering and Construction Company Limited, Shell Petroleum Development Company, and ExxonMobil. Today, he proudly owns his own Oil & Gas Servicing Company, UNDIA Integrated Services Limited, based in Lagos, Nigeria. He has recently set up another company called AUE SERVICES LLC in the United States of America.
As a distinguished member of prestigious organizations such as the Project Management Institute (PMI), Council for Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), and the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), Jonathan is committed to advancing the field of project management.
Jonathan’s passion for sharing knowledge led him to write a book titled “Perspectives in Project Management,” available on Amazon. This insightful book delves into project management, career prospects within the industry, and the realities one may face. It comprehensively compares operations, traditional project management, and agile methodologies. The book is an excellent resource for students and professionals, offering practical advice and tools to excel in project management careers.
“Perspectives in Project Management” is a well-organized and beginner-friendly guide, with each chapter being self-contained and the topics well-labeled. The book covers essential fundamentals, including effective communication, decision-making, planning, problem-solving, and more. Its emphasis on simplicity and clarity ensures that readers grasp crucial concepts easily, making it a perfect starting point for newcomers in the field.
What sets Jonathan Okundia apart from others is his unwavering commitment to professionalism, which is evident in every task he takes on. Four guiding principles underpin his approach:
Safety First: Safety is not just a checkbox but a core value in all procedures, plans, and policies. Ensuring the well-being of team members and stakeholders is paramount to project success.
Attention to Detail: Projects are complex endeavors, and overlooking minor details can lead to significant setbacks. Jonathan’s meticulous approach ensures that nothing is left to chance.
Continuous Improvement: Learning and growing are essential components of successful project management. Jonathan consistently seeks ways to improve processes, ensuring his projects stay at the forefront of innovation.
Adapting to Change: In a dynamic world, embracing change is vital for staying relevant. Jonathan’s willingness to adapt to technological, social, and economic trends enables him to tackle new challenges confidently.
As our journey with Eng. Jonathan Okundia comes to a close, we find ourselves deeply inspired by his unyielding passion for project management and his unwavering dedication to excellence. Through decades of experience, Jonathan has amassed a wealth of knowledge, honed his principles of success, and demonstrated an unwavering commitment to knowledge sharing, positioning him as a trailblazer in the field of project management. His remarkable influence continues to shape the future of this dynamic domain, leaving a lasting positive impact on aspiring project managers and seasoned professionals alike. By drawing valuable lessons from Jonathan’s success story, individuals are empowered and motivated to reach new heights in their own careers, armed with the tools and inspiration needed to excel. As the legacy of his contributions reverberates throughout the world of project management, it undeniably enriches and elevates the industry to new levels of innovation and excellence.
