Chief Operating Officer

Network Recruitment; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 750 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading logistics firm in Johannesburg is seeking a Chief Operating Officer (COO) to oversee operational functions and drive efficiency across the business. The ideal candidate has 15-20 years of senior leadership experience in freight forwarding or logistics, along with strong financial acumen. This executive role offers direct impact on strategic direction, working closely alongside the CFO. Candidates should be comfortable in both boardroom discussions and operational environments.

Qualifications

• 15-20+ years in senior operational leadership roles with strong financial acumen.
• Industry background in freight forwarding, logistics, or supply chain is non-negotiable.
• Demonstrated experience working closely with or as a CFO.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all operational functions, ensuring streamlined processes across freight forwarding and supply chain.
• Partner closely with the CFO on strategic planning, budgeting, and financial oversight.
• Drive performance, productivity, and efficiency across multiple departments and regions.

Skills

Operational leadership experience

Financial acumen

Strategic thinking

Change management

Cross-functional team leadership

Education

CA(SA)

Job description

Our client, a powerhouse in the freight forwarding and logistics sector , is searching for a dynamic, commercially astute Chief Operating Officer (COO) to steer the business into its next era of growth. Based in the beating heart of Sandton , this role sits at the intersection of finance, operations, and strategy perfect for a hands-on executive whos comfortable juggling boardroom decisions and warehouse realities.

This is not a role for the faint of heart. Its for a leader who understands that operations are the engine room of the business and knows how to fine-tune it to drive efficiency, innovation, and profit.

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

• Executive role with direct impact on both strategic and operational direction
• Work hand-in-hand with the CFO, and potentially step into a dual COO / CFO position
• Influence an industry-leading brand in a sector where precision and agility are everything

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all operational functions, ensuring streamlined processes across freight forwarding and supply chain
• Partner closely with the CFO on strategic planning, budgeting, and financial oversight
• Drive performance, productivity, and efficiency across multiple departments and regions
• Lead cross-functional teams through innovation, change management, and continuous improvement initiatives

Job Experience and Skills Required

• Education : CA(SA) essential
• Experience : 15-20+ years in senior operational leadership roles, with strong financial acumen
• Industry background in freight forwarding, logistics, or supply chain is non-negotiable
• Demonstrated experience working closely with or as a CFO financial fluency is key
• Proven ability to lead in high-pressure, high-complexity environments
• A blend of strategic thinking and operational execution you must be equally comfortable on the floor and in the boardroom

Apply now to take command of a business thats moving at the speed of global trade and needs a steady, strategic hand at the helm.

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