Branch Operations Manager

SUMMARY:
Branch Operations Manager - Pinetown, Kwa Zulu Natal

POSITION INFO:
An established organisation within the chemical manufacturing and distribution sector is seeking an experienced Branch Operations Manager to oversee the effective day-to-day operation of its branch. The successful candidate will take responsibility for production planning, manufacturing output, warehousing, stock control, fleet utilisation, deliveries, team leadership, customer service and operational compliance. This role requires a hands-on operational leader who can balance efficiency, product quality, safety, cost control and service delivery. Key Responsibilities Manage daily branch operations and overall operational performance Oversee manufacturing and weekly production planning Coordinate labour, batching priorities, equipment readiness and production output Ensure manufactured products meet approved quality, labelling and traceability standards Manage warehouse layout, stock movement, receiving, dispatch and safe storage practices Maintain accurate inventory through cycle counts, monthly stock takes and variance investigations Monitor minimum and maximum stock levels based on customer demand and supplier lead times Coordinate supplier ordering and ensure raw materials and stock are available when required Manage the branch fleet, delivery planning, driver allocation and route efficiency Monitor vehicle fuel usage, mileage, licensing, servicing and maintenance requirements Track delivery performance, proof of delivery, returns, damages and customer complaints Oversee branch administration, including order processing, invoicing, quotations and customer liaison Ensure creditor and debtor records are maintained accurately and in line with company standards Compile month-end reports and assist with expense budgets and cost control Support branch profitability by monitoring operational expenses, logistics costs and utilities Lead, coach, train and cross-train operational and administrative employees Set daily priorities, allocate resources and address productivity or performance concerns Oversee internal sales processes and support the team with customer requirements Ensure customers receive accurate product information, pricing and delivery updates Drive workflow improvements between sales, administration, production, warehouse, dispatch and finance Monitor operational KPIs, including production output, order accuracy, stock variance, fleet costs and customer service Maintain professional standards across the warehouse, production areas, offices, yard, equipment and vehicles Ensure full compliance with SHEQ, ISO, legal and regulatory requirements Lead incident investigations relating to accidents, spills, damages and non-conformances Maintain audit readiness for internal audits, external inspections and ISO reviews Promote a strong culture of safety, accountability, teamwork and customer service Minimum Requirements Relevant tertiary qualification in Operations Management, Production, Supply Chain, Logistics, Business Management or a related field Proven experience in branch operations, manufacturing, warehousing, stock control and logistics Strong leadership and people-management experience Experience managing production planning and operational performance Knowledge of SHEQ, ISO standards and regulatory compliance Sound financial understanding, including budgets, cost control and branch profitability Strong knowledge of inventory management, fleet control and delivery operations Experience within chemical manufacturing, industrial products or a similar environment will be advantageous Excellent planning, communication, problem-solving and decision-making skills Strong customer-service orientation and the ability to manage multiple operational priorities Skills and Competencies Operational leadership Production and manufacturing management Warehouse and inventory control Fleet and logistics management SHEQ and ISO compliance Financial and cost-control awareness Team leadership and employee development Planning and organisation Problem-solving and decision-making Customer-service management Process improvement Attention to detail