Head of Operations

SUMMARY:
Our client is seeking an experienced Head of Operations to lead and oversee daily business operations, manage multiple departments and drive business growth, profitability and operational efficiency. The successful candidate must have extensive senior management experience, a strong background in the shipping industry and sound financial management and accounting expertise.

POSITION INFO:
Location: Cape Town, Western Cape Requirements: Matric certificate. A relevant tertiary qualification in Business Management, Commerce (BCom) or a related field. At least 10 years' experience in a senior leadership or executive management role. Essential: Proven experience in the shipping industry, with a sound understanding of shipping operations and related business processes. Essential: Strong financial management and accounting experience, including financial reviews, budget oversight, profitability analysis, cost control and margin improvement. Extensive experience in operational management and overseeing multiple business functions. Experience managing sales, warehouse and finance departments. Strong commercial awareness and business acumen. Proven ability to improve operational efficiency, productivity and profitability. Excellent leadership, people management and team development skills. Strong analytical, strategic planning, problem-solving and decision-making abilities. Ability to work effectively under pressure in a deadline-driven environment. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite. Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills. A hands-on leadership approach with the ability to manage both strategic objectives and daily operations. Must be based in Cape Town. Key Responsibilities: Oversee and manage day-to-day business operations, ensuring effective performance across all departments. Provide leadership and direction to sales, warehousing and finance teams. Establish operational priorities and implement strategies to achieve business objectives. Monitor financial performance, budgets, profitability, productivity and operating costs. Conduct financial reviews, analyse business performance and implement measures to improve margins and control expenditure. Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, service delivery and overall business performance. Report on operational and financial results to senior management and recommend corrective actions where necessary. Work closely with senior management to achieve financial, productivity and customer satisfaction targets. Drive continuous improvement through process optimisation and the implementation of best practices. Ensure compliance with applicable legislation, industry regulations and company policies. Implement internal policies, procedures and management directives. Promote employee engagement, accountability and a productive working environment. Maintain appropriate workplace health and safety standards. Build and maintain effective relationships with customers, suppliers and internal stakeholders. Drive sustainable business growth and profitability through effective operational and financial management.