Gelsenwasser AG emerged from a two-year international tendering process as the preferred bidder for a major project in Algeria. The project, with a volume of EUR 41 million, was to ensure the water supply and wastewater disposal in two Algerian cities with a total of 1 million inhabitants. The interim manager, who was employed as project director at the time, was tasked with preparing the bid and negotiating the offer.
The contract covered the operation of all plants and networks belonging to the supply area, the complete restructuring of the drinking water and wastewater operations, the planning and management of an investment plan for the procurement of plants and equipment, customer management including billing and the transfer of expertise to the Algerian team.
Coordinated the management of a consortium of 4 companies
The interim manager coordinated a consortium of 4 companies (3 German and 1 Belgian). His core tasks included ensuring good communication between all parties involved and thus creating a good basis for coordinated negotiations. In addition, the interim manager was responsible for ensuring rapprochement with the Algerian partner at all levels, which led to the closing and signing of the contract.
Intensive discussions with all stakeholders create trust
In particular, the diplomatically trained (EU Commission) interim manager focused on creating understanding and acceptance for the restructuring measures in Algeria. In numerous discussions with the Algerian Ministry of Water, local authorities and companies as well as trade unions and the workforces of local companies, he succeeded in securing the trust and participation of the Algerian side.
Successfully overcoming the highest intercultural requirements
One particular challenge in this project was overcoming intercultural barriers. The Algerian mentality is characterized by a special pride - and a certain sensitivity. In addition, due to the European-Algerian history (colonial period and World War II), there is still a pronounced hostility towards arrogant behavior from foreigners. As a native Frenchman, the interim manager knew these backgrounds very well - and was able to avoid misunderstandings. The fact that Algerians and French people literally share a language certainly also contributed to the success of the project.
