Are you a strategic and hands-on leader with a passion for operational excellence? We are looking for a dynamic Senior Operations Manager for a dynamic Manufacturing company, to support the Managing Director as the second-in-command (2IC). This critical role will oversee Sales Administration, Logistics, and Production departments, ensuring that operational processes run smoothly and efficiently. If you're ready to take on a leadership challenge in a fast-paced environment, this could be the perfect opportunity for you!

Key experience needed for this position is - Oversee the roll-out of new systems, provide staff training, and ensure successful integration, previous experience implementing and rolling out a new system is essential.  Develop and enforce operational procedures, security protocols, and safety standards.  Address operational challenges with a hands-on, solution-oriented approach to keep processes running smoothly. Use Excel for data analysis, reporting, and process optimization to improve performance and efficiency.

Please kindly apply here or email your CV to ellarine@obr.co.za. Please ensure your CV is updated and your skills match the role to be considered. This is a crucial position that is in line for succession planning, and only qualified candidates will be considered.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operational Leadership: Lead and manage daily operations across multiple departments, driving efficiency and continuous improvement.
• Technical Proficiency: Address operational challenges with a hands-on, solution-oriented approach to keep processes running smoothly.
• System Implementation: Oversee the roll-out of new systems, provide staff training, and ensure successful integration.
• Advanced Excel Use: Use Excel for data analysis, reporting, and process optimization to improve performance and efficiency.
• HR Management: Manage employee relations, including handling disciplinaries, CCMA cases, and performance management.
• Customer Engagement: Collaborate with clients to introduce new products, gather feedback, and ensure customer satisfaction.
• Project Management: Lead projects, including new system implementations, ensuring smooth operations and staff training.
• Sales Administration Oversight: Supervise the Sales Administration team, ensuring accurate order processing and strong customer support.
• Production Oversight: Manage production schedules, optimize processes, and ensure production targets are met.
• Security & Procedures: Develop and enforce operational procedures, security protocols, and safety standards.
• Budget Management: Oversee operational budgets, manage cost controls, and allocate resources effectively.
• Performance Monitoring: Track KPIs, analyze data, and report insights to senior leadership for continuous improvement.

Qualifications & Experience:

• A Diploma in Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, or a related field is essential.
• A Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management, Logistics, Supply Chain, or a similar discipline is advantageous.
• Additional certifications in Lean Management, Six Sigma, or Project Management would be advantageous.
• 5+ years of experience in a senior operations management role, ideally within a manufacturing/production environment.
• Proven success in budget management, cost control, and P&L management.
• Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and driving operational strategies across departments.
• In-depth knowledge of logistics, supply chain management, and regulatory compliance.
• Strong experience with advanced Excel and data-driven decision-making.

Key Skills:

• Leadership & Team Management: Ability to lead and inspire large teams, fostering a positive and results-driven work environment.
• Strategic Planning & Problem-Solving: Exceptional ability to plan strategically and address challenges with effective solutions.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills for collaborating across teams and with external stakeholders.
• Data Analysis: Proficiency in analyzing data to optimize operations and improve efficiency.
• Regulatory Knowledge: In-depth understanding of health and safety standards, quality control, and operational compliance.