GENERAL MANAGER – BRANCH OPERATIONS

SUMMARY:
A paper merchant based in Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), Eastern Cape is currently seeking a General Manager – Branch operations.
The General Manager is responsible for the overall leadership, performance, and profitability of the Port Elizabeth branch. This role has full operational and managerial accountability across sales, distribution, warehousing, fleet, staff, health and safety, security, service providers, and financial controls related to paper and chemical products.
The successful candidate will be a hands-on, disciplined, and self-motivated leader capable of driving operational excellence while maintaining compliance, safety, and service standards.

POSITION INFO:
Branch & Operational Management

• Full responsibility for the day-to-day operations of the branch
• Ensure efficient integration of sales, warehousing, distribution, and fleet operations
• Drive operational efficiencies and continuous improvement initiatives
• Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and industry regulations

• Oversee and support the sales team to achieve branch revenue and margin targets
• Monitor pricing, discounts, and customer profitability
• Maintain strong relationships with key customers and suppliers
• Ensure high levels of customer service and resolution of escalated issues
• Identify growth opportunities within the region

• Full accountability for warehousing operations of paper and chemical products
• Ensure accurate stock control, stock rotation, and inventory management
• Minimise stock losses, damages, and variances
• Oversee distribution planning to ensure on-time, safe, and cost-effective deliveries
• Ensure compliance with chemical handling, storage, and transport requirements

• Manage the branch fleet, including vehicles, maintenance schedules, licensing, and compliance in conjunction with the National Fleet Manager
• Control fleet-related costs and usage
• Oversee site management, including buildings, equipment, and infrastructure
• Coordinate contractors and service providers for maintenance and repairs

• Ensure full compliance with Occupational Health & Safety Act and relevant regulations

• Implement and monitor health, safety, and environmental procedures, especially for chemical products
• Manage site security, access control, and loss prevention
• Investigate incidents, accidents, and non-compliance issues and implement corrective actions

• Full responsibility for staff management, including:
• Recruitment and onboarding in conjunction with the National HR Manager
• Performance management
• Training and development identification in conjunction with the NHRM
• Attendance and discipline
• Conduct disciplinary processes in line with labour legislation and company policy
• Foster a culture of accountability, professionalism, and teamwork
• Ensure adequate staffing levels and succession planning

• Manage branch budgets and control operating expenses
• Oversee basic accounting functions, including:
• Sales performance tracking
• Cost control
• Stock valuation and variances
• Monitor debtors, credit control support, and sales-related financial reporting
• Ensure accurate and timely reporting to EXCO

• Prepare and present monthly operational and financial reports to EXCO
• Provide insights, risk assessments, and improvement recommendations
• Participate in strategic planning and execution at branch level

• Minimum 5–10 years’ experience in a General Management or Senior Operations Management role
• Proven experience in sales, warehousing, and distribution environments
• Experience within paper, chemical, FMCG, or industrial distribution will be highly advantageous
• Demonstrated experience in people management and disciplinary action
• Solid understanding of basic accounting, stock control, and sales finances

• Strong leadership and decision-making ability
• Highly disciplined, self-motivated, and results-driven
• Excellent organisational and problem-solving skills
• Strong communication and reporting skills
• Ability to manage multiple functions simultaneously
• High level of integrity and accountability

• Must have own reliable vehicle
• Valid driver’s licence
• Willing and able to start ASAP