Operations Manager - Fuel Industry

SUMMARY:
A global fuel and logistics company in Ballito is looking for an experienced Operations Manager to lead and optimise performance across its fuel retail network.

POSITION INFO:
Working closely with Area Managers, this strategic and operational role focuses on ensuring site efficiency, exceptional customer service, and the achievement of sales, compliance, and profitability goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead and support a team of 4 Area Managers in overseeing day-to-day operations across retail fuel sites to ensure smooth, safe, and compliant operations.
• Support and manage the Retail Support Officer to deliver outstanding performance.
• Monitor and analyse sales, margin, and volume performance across all sites. Identify underperforming retail sites and implement corrective action plans.
• Translate the Retail Director’s strategic objectives into operational plans and guide Area Managers in execution.
• Ensure all retail sites maintain brand, safety, health, environmental and quality (SHEQ) standards. Conduct regular audits and follow-ups.
• Drive initiatives to improve customer service and ensure consistent, high-quality customers interactions at all retail sites.
• Provide leadership and support to Area Managers, helping them grow their capabilities.
• Promote accountability and alignment with company values.
• Identify and implement operational efficiencies and cost-saving initiatives across the network.
• Assist with rollouts of new initiatives, systems, and infrastructure upgrades, coordinating between Retail Director, Area Managers, and relevant teams.
• Compile regular operational and performance reports for the Retail Director, providing insights and recommendations.

• Bachelor’s degree in business management, Retail, Operations, or a related field (preferred)
• 5+ years in a retail operations role, preferably within the fuel or FMCG sectors
• Experience managing multi-site operations
• Strong people management and stakeholder engagement skills
• Strategic thinking and execution
• Leadership and team development
• Analytical and financial acumen
• Strong understanding of retail operations and customer service
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work across diverse geographic areas