Chief Operating Officer

SUMMARY:
🚢 Ready to Captain the Operational Ship? Step Into the C-Suite. 🚀 You're not just a CA(SA): You’re a strategist; a builder; and a visionary who doesn’t just lead teams — you lead transformation. If you're ready to own the operations of a fast-paced, global supply chain business while partnering closely with the CFO to shape its future, then this is the high-stakes, high-reward role you've been waiting for.

POSITION INFO:
Our client, a powerhouse in the freight forwarding and logistics sector, is searching for a dynamic, commercially astute Chief Operating Officer (COO) to steer the business into its next era of growth. Based in the beating heart of Sandton, this role sits at the intersection of finance, operations, and strategy — perfect for a hands-on executive who’s comfortable juggling boardroom decisions and warehouse realities.

This is not a role for the faint of heart. It’s for a leader who understands that operations are the engine room of the business — and knows how to fine-tune it to drive efficiency, innovation, and profit.

Why This Opportunity Stands Out:

• Executive role with direct impact on both strategic and operational direction
• Work hand-in-hand with the CFO, and potentially step into a dual COO/CFO position
• Influence an industry-leading brand in a sector where precision and agility are everything

• Oversee all operational functions, ensuring streamlined processes across freight forwarding and supply chain
• Partner closely with the CFO on strategic planning, budgeting, and financial oversight
• Drive performance, productivity, and efficiency across multiple departments and regions
• Lead cross-functional teams through innovation, change management, and continuous improvement initiatives

• Education: CA(SA) – essential
• Experience: 15–20+ years in senior operational leadership roles, with strong financial acumen
• Industry background in freight forwarding, logistics, or supply chain is non-negotiable
• Demonstrated experience working closely with or as a CFO – financial fluency is key
• Proven ability to lead in high-pressure, high-complexity environments
• A blend of strategic thinking and operational execution – you must be equally comfortable on the floor and in the boardroom

• Supply Chain Leadership
• Executive Finance
• Freight Forwarding Operations
• COO & CFO Roles
• CA(SA) Executive Search
• Commercial Logistics Strategy