Area / Branch Manager – KZN, Durban

Ann Swann Personnel Services; Durban; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Job summary

Ann Swann Personnel Services is seeking an Area / Branch Manager for a Durban-based, specialised equipment rental business. You will oversee branch operations, drive growth, manage profitability, and lead a team across service delivery, sales, and client relationships.

The role requires hands-on leadership, strong commercial acumen, and a proven track record in operational management and business development, with travel to client sites as needed.

Qualifications

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Business Management or Operations Management, or a degree in Engineering would be advantageous.
• Proven experience in branch management or area management in a leadership role.
• Demonstrated experience in sales, business development, and customer relationship management.
• Strong understanding of financial management, budgeting, and performance reporting.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and relevant business management systems.
• Valid driver’s licence and willingness to travel.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage day-to-day branch operations, ensuring efficiency and compliance with policies.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities to increase revenue and expand the customer base.
• Manage branch budgets, financial performance, and profitability.
• Lead, coach, and develop branch staff to meet performance objectives.
• Establish and maintain long-term relationships with key customers and stakeholders.
• Provide regular updates on branch performance and opportunities to senior management.

Skills

Branch management experience

Sales & business development

Customer relationship management

Financial management & budgeting

Leadership & people management

Driver's license

Willingness to travel

Education

Business Management

Operations Management

Engineering degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Business management systems

Job description

Our client is seeking an experienced and results-driven Area / Branch Manager to oversee branch operations, drive business development, and ensure the profitability and growth of its specialised equipment rental business in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.

The successful candidate will be responsible for managing branch performance, expanding the customer base, maintaining strong client relationships, and overseeing the efficient delivery of rental solutions across compressed air, flow, temperature control, and power generation.

The role requires a hands-on individual with strong leadership abilities, commercial awareness, and a proven track record in operational management and business development.

Duties and Responsibilities

Branch Operations Management

• Oversee and manage the day-to-day operations of the branch, ensuring efficiency and adherence to company policies and procedures.
• Implement operational strategies to improve productivity, service delivery, and overall branch performance.
• Monitor and manage branch resources, equipment, and operational requirements.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, health and safety regulations, and relevant industry standards.
• Identify operational challenges and implement effective corrective measures.

Business Development & Sales

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities to increase revenue and expand the customer base.
• Develop and implement sales strategies to achieve branch targets and business objectives.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with existing customers while actively developing new accounts.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activities, and customer requirements to identify growth opportunities.
• Oversee quotations, pricing, and negotiations to ensure profitability and customer satisfaction.

Financial & Performance Management

• Take responsibility for branch profitability, revenue growth, and cost management.
• Develop, monitor, and manage branch budgets and financial performance.
• Analyse sales performance, operational expenditure, and profitability against established targets.
• Prepare and submit regular financial, operational, and performance reports to senior management.
• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and reduce unnecessary expenditure.

Staff Management & Leadership

• Lead, manage, and motivate branch employees to achieve individual and team performance objectives.
• Monitor employee performance and provide ongoing coaching, guidance, and support.
• Ensure appropriate staffing levels, resource allocation, and effective workforce planning.
• Promote a positive, productive, and accountable working environment.
• Address employee performance concerns and operational challenges in accordance with company procedures.

Customer Relationship Management

• Establish and maintain long-term relationships with key customers and stakeholders.
• Ensure a high standard of customer service and timely resolution of customer enquiries and complaints.
• Identify customer requirements and work with internal teams to deliver appropriate solutions.
• Conduct regular customer visits and maintain a visible presence within the assigned area.

Reporting & Internal Collaboration

• Monitor branch performance against established KPIs and business objectives.
• Maintain accurate operational, sales, and customer records.
• Collaborate with senior management and other departments to ensure alignment with company objectives.
• Provide regular updates on branch performance, business opportunities, and operational challenges.
• Implement company initiatives and contribute to continuous improvement across branch operations.

Minimum Requirements

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Business Management, Operations Management or a degree in Engineering would be advantageous.
• Proven experience in branch management, area management, or a similar operational leadership role.
• Demonstrated experience in sales, business development, and customer relationship management.
• Previous experience managing employees, operational budgets, and branch profitability.
• Strong understanding of financial management, budgeting, and performance reporting.
• Proven ability to achieve sales targets and operational objectives.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and relevant business management systems.
• Valid driver's licence.
• Willingness to travel as required.