By Damilola Fatunmise
As the global energy sector shifts towards sustainability, contract managers are playing increasingly critical roles in peacebuilding, climate change adaptation, and conflict resolution. In this complex landscape, professionals like Bernadette Bristol-Alagbariya bring a wealth of experience, seamlessly blending operational efficiency, community relations, and sustainability. With a career spanning contracts worth up to $15 million, Bernadette exemplifies the evolving responsibilities of contract managers in the 21st century.
Globally, the energy transition is accelerating. By 2023, the renewable energy market alone was valued at $881.7 billion, projected to grow to $1.9 trillion by 2030. As nations and corporations commit to net-zero goals, the interplay between energy projects, environmental concerns, and local communities has intensified. Contract managers are uniquely positioned to bridge these interests, ensuring that projects achieve operational goals while addressing social and environmental challenges.
Bernadette’s roles with organizations like NLNG, Ebby-Tek Services Limited, Zitadel Limited, Falck Prime Atlantic and more illustrate the breadth of responsibilities modern contract managers face. Her expertise ranges from Mediation and Conciliation, Conflict Resolution, Industrial Relations, External Relations, Payroll and Benefits Administration, Talent Management, Performance Monitoring and Management, Learning and Development, HSE compliance to Community Relations and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) amongst others. She emphasizes the importance of fostering collaboration among stakeholders, particularly in regions where energy projects intersect with vulnerable communities. Energy projects must balance efficiency with inclusivity and sustainability, she notes. Contract managers are often the glue that holds these elements together.
Managing industrial and community relations requires balancing corporate objectives with local expectations. Failure to do so can lead to protests, project delays, or even cancellations. Regulatory complexity poses another significant challenge, especially in regions with inconsistent enforcement of environmental and labor laws. While AI and data analytics are becoming essential tools, their implementation can lead to over-reliance on automation, potentially ignoring the nuances of human judgment. Climate-related disruptions, such as extreme weather events, further complicate project timelines and budgets.
Despite these challenges, opportunities abound for contract managers. The integration of environmental goals into project planning aligns with global sustainability standards. Predictive analytics and AI tools optimize budget tracking, compliance, and performance monitoring, enhancing operational efficiency. Proactive CSR initiatives build trust with host communities, fostering stable operating environments and long-term partnerships. Contract managers can also act as mediators, preempting and resolving conflicts to ensure smoother project execution and stronger stakeholder relationships.
A SWOT analysis of contract management in energy projects reveals strengths such as expertise in balancing operational and community needs, a proven track record in HSE compliance, and effective multi-million-dollar budget management. Weaknesses include limited adoption of advanced technologies in some regions, challenges in aligning global sustainability standards with local practices, and dependence on external stakeholders for regulatory clarity. Opportunities include the expansion of renewable energy projects, technological advancements, and a growing emphasis on ESG principles. Threats include increasing regulatory scrutiny, potential AI bias, and escalating climate-related risks.
Bernadette suggests several strategies to strengthen the role of contract managers in this evolving environment. Contract managers should undergo continuous training in climate adaptation, conflict resolution, and advanced technologies to remain competitive. Organizations should prioritize the integration of robust AI tools to streamline processes without undermining human oversight. Governments and industry leaders must establish clear, enforceable frameworks that promote sustainable practices and ensure equitable benefits for local communities.
Contract managers are more than operational overseers—they are agents of change, Bernadette explains. Their role is to ensure that energy projects not only succeed but also leave a positive legacy for the environment and society. As the energy sector evolves, contract managers like Bernadette Bristol-Alagbariya are proving indispensable in navigating the intersection of operational efficiency, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility. By addressing challenges and seizing opportunities, they are setting the stage for a future where energy projects contribute to peace, climate resilience, and community development. In the words of Bernadette, the path to a sustainable energy future lies in balancing innovation, collaboration, and humanity.