Bertus Ras
I am a multi-skilled and qualified construction project management professional with solid industry experience in commercial construction with experience in both fit-out projects and new build sites – making for a versatile and valuable team leader. I am a creative problem solver, taking the initiative to find practical solutions to resolve challenges that arise during the construction process.
I have more than twelve years of related experience, with my current role being the Fit-Out Project Manager for Aquilla Interiors in Melbourne. We are a design & construct fit-out firm specialising in the commercial office sector. I am tasked with managing multiple projects across Melbourne from inception through to handover.
Prior to this role, I was the Construction Project Manager at C.J. Irons Construction Property Developers in South Africa. With them I delivered new low-rise construction projects in excess of 22,500m² and nearly 15,000m² of new tenant fit-outs. I have also been involved in the pre-construction of five luxury private residences and the township establishment and design development for a social housing project of more than 6,500 apartments.
I have developed strong asset management skills in my tenure with an owner/builder and have been the primary person responsible for the Walker Creek Office Park. In the ten years that the park has been occupied, there hasn't been a single tenant that has vacated - we've always been able secure lease extensions with the original tenants.
My résumé provides a very good overview of my experience and character. I am a passionate, accomplished, and well-rounded construction specialist with a positive work ethic.
Photo: Me standing at Hans Ras Road in Cape Town, named after my 9th Great Grandfather, the first Ras to arrive in the Cape in 1658.
Core Competencies
Project Management
Construction Management
Asset Management
New Construction Projects
01 Walker Creek 4
02 The Corner Office
03 USAID NOB2
04 Walker Creek 2 & 3
Asset Management
Tenant Installations
Tenant Management
Employment History
Fit-Out Project Manager
Aquilla Interiors (Jun 2024 - CurrentI am currently employed with Aquilla Interiors as their fit-out project manager. I am expected to take ownership of all new projects from inception, through design and pre-construction, to delivery and final handover.
Construction Project Manager
C.J. Irons Construction (Jan, 2014 - Jan, 2024)I was retained and promoted after the completion of my studies and moved into a managerial role in the organization. I was tasked with supplying the management resources to the sites, ensuring that projects were completed on time and within budget. My career later evolved and required me to take up a tenant-facing role - which included acquisition, lease negotiations, fit-out installations and post-handover management of our clients.
Education
B.Sc (Hons) Construction Management
University of Pretoria (2012 - 2013)Graduated second in class with distinction.
B.Sc Construction Management
University of Pretoria (2009 - 2011)Graduated top of class with distinction.
Skills
Testimonials
Dr. Aden Guliye
Chief Migration Health Officer, International Organization for MigrationI have only known and interacted with you for about two years and have witnessed your exemplary work at MHAC Annex.
Alet Welgemoed
Practice Co-ordinator, Dr. JJ Gilau & PartnersOur paths didn’t cross much, but the times they did, you were always so friendly and helpful.
Anné Vermaak
Maintenance Manager, Multinet SystemsI believe you have left deep impressions with so many people, definitely something to be proud of. Thank you for the opportunities to work together; it has always been a pleasure. You are truly a pleasant person.
Bibi Goss-Ross
Managing Director, Advanced Health South AfricaI can still remember the first day of the project and all the meetings. You have always continued to impress. Your professionalism, good manners, and your exceptional competence were next level.
Cheryl Zillmann
Senior Corporate Operations Manager, The Aurum InstituteIt has been such a pleasure dealing with you regarding our new site at Walker Creek Office Park.
Engela Smith
Snr Communications and Knowledge Management Specialist, BroadReach Health DevelopmentI’m sure your new clients will be equally impressed by your professionalism, knowledge, and willingness to help as we are.
Frits Schuite
Director, Boogertman + Partners ArchitectsIt was always pleasant and a rewarding experience. You have indeed grown into a very capable and experienced professional and I am sure that you will be very successful in whatever you will engage in down under.
Joey Breedt
General Manager, Advanced Health South AfricaOur paths have only crossed in the last two years. It has been a pleasure and a privilege, the way you have treated me and dealt with any query or request.
Kobus van Jaarsveld
Director, Civil ConceptsI can honestly say that for as long as I've known you, you've always been a team player who carried yourself with professionalism.
Liesl Wesch
Operations Manager, Hollard InsuranceWe wish you major success as your work ethic, kind nature, and, most importantly, patience have truly added value to our Pretoria branch.
Minah Mogale
Community Coordinator, Office Co. BrooklynI've learned a lot from you and your personality. You have become one of the people I am eternally glad to have met. You are absolutely one-of-a-kind, and I know that you are irreplaceable.
Sanelize Perdomo
Compliance, Contracts and Grants Manager, BroadReach Health DevelopmentI am grateful that we got the opportunity to work alongside you to setup the BroadReach office.