Branch Manager

SUMMARY:
Lead a High-Performance Production Operation! We are seeking an experienced and hands-on Branch Manager to take full accountability for all production and factory operations within a high-volume industrial laundry environment.

POSITION INFO:
Branch Manager – Industrial Laundry Operations
Location: Cape Town
Department: Operations
Reporting To: General Manager
Position Type: Permanent / Middle Management

This role is responsible for the end-to-end management of operations, including collection, receiving, sorting, repairing, washing, drying, folding, packing, order make-up, loading, distribution, and delivery. The successful candidate will drive profitability, operational efficiency, compliance, and customer satisfaction while leading a large, multi-functional team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Profitability & Financial Management:
  • Manage and optimise financial resources to ensure maximum return on investment.
  • Control labour, raw materials, utilities, chemicals, and equipment costs.
  • Compile and manage operational budgets. Monitor fixed, variable, and Capex expenditure.
  • Control wage and salary costs in line with approved budgets.
  • Calculate and review pricing structures to maintain competitive and profitable margins.
• ⚙️ Production & Operational Excellence:
  • Oversee all production processes across the branch.
  • Set and monitor hourly/daily production targets per area and machine.
  • Investigate deviations and implement root cause corrective actions.
  • Ensure that production schedules are compiled, communicated, and optimised for efficiency.
  • Monitor plant efficiency (kg processed per labour hour).
  • Drive continuous improvement in productivity and quality standards.
• Distribution & Logistics:
  • Ensure that trucks are loaded optimally and routes are efficiently planned.
  • Implement systems to control inbound and outbound logistics.
  • Ensure secure, accurate, and timeous deliveries.
  • Maintain effective administration and tracking of all distribution activities.
• Sales & Customer Service:
  • Maintain and strengthen client relationships to ensure retention and contract renewals.
  • Oversee complaint resolution and ensure timely client feedback.
  • Monitor customer satisfaction surveys and implement corrective actions.
  • Support sales strategy and manage new business, renewals, and installations.
• People Management:
  • Lead, coach, and manage branch staff performance and conduct.
  • Address grievances and disciplinary matters in line with policy.
  • Plan labour effectively to reduce overtime and casual labour costs.
  • Identify training gaps and align with the workplace skills plan and budget.
  • Maintain accurate time, attendance, and payroll administration (Payspace).
• Administration & Reporting:
  • Analyse operational, financial, distribution, sales, and HR reports.
  • Take corrective action where deviations occur.
  • Compile monthly management, Exco, and Board reports.
• Legislative & Standards Compliance:
  • Ensure compliance with ISO 9001 requirements.
  • Ensure full compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA).
  • Ensure HR and IR compliance in line with the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA) and the Labour Relations Act (LRA).
  • Maintain effective financial controls, administration systems, and ELCB requirements.

• Plant efficiency (kg processed per labour hour)
• Customer retention and complaint resolution rate
• Cost per kilogram processed (labour, utilities, and chemicals vs budget)
• Regional financial and operational performance targets

• Undergraduate qualification in Engineering, Finance, Business, or Production.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in factory/production operations.
• At least 3 years in a middle management role.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in SHEQ, with strong knowledge of health and safety regulations.
• Working knowledge of factory equipment, machinery, and production processes.

• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Excellent financial acumen
• Strong operational and analytical ability
• Effective communicator (written and verbal)
• Decisive under pressure

• Site-based role within an industrial laundry facility.
• Exposure to heat, noise, moisture, chemicals, and moving machinery.
• Regular presence required on the production floor (PPE mandatory).
• Flexible hours, including early starts, extended hours, and occasional weekends.
• High-pressure operational environment requiring strong problem-solving ability.