Head of Operations - Commercial Focus for Import/Export Manufacturing

SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:

PURPOSE:

Overall responsibility for the management of the procurement, logistics and technical compliance functions of our client, in support of revenue growth and profitability. Manage the relationship and deliverables of commercial partners and vendors. Build a sustainable culture of continuous improvement in the pre- and post-sale processes and the overall customer experience, through cross-functional collaboration. Lead and direct support staff to ensure the consistent delivery of quality products, on time and on budget. Contribute to the development and implementation of strategies to enhance customer service, increase sales & efficiency; and the overall profitability of the business.

Reports to:
Managing Director (MD)

Key results Area

• Overall responsibility for the management of the full procurement function and technical compliance.
• Management of the Logistics function.
• Build a sustainable culture of continuous improvement in the pre- and post-sale processes and the overall customer experience,  through cross-functional collaboration.
• Manage the relationship and deliverables of commercial partners and vendors.
• Lead and direct support staff to ensure the consistent delivery of quality products, on time and on budget

Contribute to the development and implementation of strategies to enhance customer service, increase sales & efficiency; and the overall profitability of the business

Limits of Authority

Acts under the direction of the Managing Director (MD). Accepts functional direction from the Financial Director (FD). All other decisions must be in accordance with our client's policies and procedures; and those of their suppliers and customers.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience required

• Relevant commercial tertiary qualification, with a strong Accounting/Finance Background (B. Com/B. Com Honours /B. Business Science/CA)
• At least 5 - 10 Years’ experience in a similar role ideally in the manufacturing/wholesale electronics/technology industry.
• Strong commercial acumen.
• Strong financial acumen.
• Good understanding of financial management and ERP systems.
• Proven numeracy and analytical skills.
• Good understanding of accounting principles & practices would be advantageous.
• Demonstrated influencing and negotiation skills.
• Strong leadership ability.
• Quantifiable experience in international import supply chain management and distribution.
• Thorough knowledge of domestic warehousing and courier operations.
• Advanced skills in the use of Microsoft Office products.
• Good prioritising and time management skills.
• High degree of professionalism.
• Cultural sensitivity with good interpersonal skills.
• Strong administrative and organization ability.
• Understanding of ERP & quoting systems.
• Good written and spoken skills in English.
• Understanding of PC Board’ production processes would be advantageous.

KEY SELECTION CRITERIA:

Person Specification

• Self-motivated and enthusiastic team player.
• Meticulous and systematic.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Possess confidence and authority to obtain information and interact with key customer & supplier personnel.
• Applies logic and commercial reason to decision making.
• Forward thinking with a high degree of initiative; and focussed on results.
• Able to manage competing priorities to commercial effect.
• Able to analyse complex situations and formulate structured action plans.
• Accepts responsibility for own and team’s actions and the achievement of intended outcomes.
• Displays resilience and persistence.
• Able to work independently and complete tasks within rigid timelines and on budget.
• Communicates information effectively in a calm, friendly and supportive manner.
• Effective in a team-based environment and in support of team objectives.
• Willing to assist knowledge and skill development of colleagues.
• Available to work on a full-time basis and able to undertake occasional national and international travel.