Public-Private Partnership

Term from Infrastructure Development industry explained for recruiters

A Public-Private Partnership (PPP) is a way of working where government organizations team up with private companies to build or run major projects like roads, hospitals, or airports. Think of it like a business deal where the government brings the permits and some funding, while private companies bring their business skills and additional money. This setup helps get big projects done faster and often at a lower cost to taxpayers. Similar terms you might see include P3, Private Finance Initiative (PFI), or Infrastructure Partnership. This approach is popular because it shares both the risks and rewards between public and private groups.

Examples in Resumes

Managed $50M Public-Private Partnership project for city railway extension

Led negotiations for PPP infrastructure development in healthcare sector

Successfully structured Public-Private Partnership deals for 3 major airport projects

Typical job title: "PPP Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Infrastructure Development Manager PPP Project Manager Infrastructure Finance Specialist Project Finance Manager PPP Transaction Advisor Infrastructure Investment Specialist Public Infrastructure Manager

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: Can you describe a challenging PPP project you've managed and how you handled the main obstacles?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that show experience in managing complex stakeholder relationships, understanding of risk allocation, and problem-solving abilities in both public and private sector contexts.

Q: How do you evaluate whether a project is suitable for PPP structure?

Expected Answer: The candidate should discuss assessment of project size, public benefit, revenue potential, risk factors, and ability to attract private investment.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the key components of a PPP contract?

Expected Answer: Should mention risk sharing arrangements, payment mechanisms, performance standards, termination clauses, and dispute resolution procedures.

Q: How do you ensure proper risk allocation in a PPP project?

Expected Answer: Should explain how risks are identified and assigned to the party best able to manage them, with examples of different types of risks.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is a PPP and what are its main benefits?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic concept of public-private collaboration, mentioning benefits like shared risks, private sector efficiency, and public sector oversight.

Q: What are the different types of PPP models?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe basic models like Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT), Design-Build-Operate (DBO), and concessions.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Understanding of basic PPP concepts
  • Financial analysis and modeling
  • Contract review and documentation
  • Stakeholder communication

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Project structuring and planning
  • Risk assessment and management
  • Contract negotiation
  • Financial closing coordination

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex deal structuring
  • Multi-stakeholder management
  • Policy and regulatory framework expertise
  • Strategic advisory and leadership

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No understanding of public sector processes
  • Lack of experience with large-scale project management
  • Poor stakeholder management skills
  • No knowledge of infrastructure finance basics
  • Unable to explain risk allocation concepts