Deputy CEO

SUMMARY:
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership

• Support the CEO in developing and executing the group’s strategic objectives.
• Drive expansion strategies, product innovation, and new market penetration.
• Lead transformation and change management initiatives across the group.
• Identify opportunities for efficiency, profitability, and sustainability improvements.

• Oversee daily business operations of multiple divisions (manufacturing, distribution, sales, and marketing).
• Align departmental goals with group-level objectives and ensure seamless execution.
• Ensure performance targets are met across the supply chain, sales, finance, and HR.

• Collaborate with the CFO to monitor budgets, cash flow, and financial forecasts.
• Ensure effective cost control and return on investment (ROI) strategies.
• Present financial and operational performance updates to the board.

• Lead, mentor, and develop senior management and divisional heads.
• Foster a high-performance culture with accountability and innovation at its core.
• Promote BBBEE, employment equity, and skills development as per South African regulations.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders including suppliers, clients, investors, and regulators.
• Represent the company at external forums, industry bodies, and strategic partnerships.

• Ensure company-wide compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements (e.g. HACCP, ISO standards).
• Oversee risk management frameworks, corporate governance, and sustainability practices.

POSITION INFO:
Key Qualifications and Experience:
Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Commerce, Supply Chain Management or related field.
• Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) or equivalent postgraduate qualification (advantageous).
• Minimum 10–15 years of experience in FMCG or manufacturing environment, with at least 5 years in an executive leadership role.

• Strong understanding of FMCG operations, logistics, sales, marketing, and production.
• Proven experience in large-scale operations, financial acumen, and strategic planning.
• Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and advanced Excel/Power BI skills.

• Inspirational leadership and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical, risk management, and crisis-handling abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure and deliver results in a fast-paced environment.

• A track record of successful business growth, transformation, or turnaround.
• Knowledge of South African consumer trends, retail chains, and FMCG market dynamics.
• Commitment to ethical leadership, social impact, and long-term sustainability.