Chief Operating Officer: Astral Foods | Mountain Valley - Astral

Trending Talent Solutions; Pietermaritzburg; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 750,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading poultry processing company is seeking a Chief Operating Officer (COO) with over 10 years of operations management experience. The COO will oversee all aspects of poultry processing to ensure efficiency, growth, and compliance with regulatory standards. The ideal candidate should possess a degree in Operations Management and strong leadership skills. This is a full-time role based in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years in operations management, preferably in poultry processing or FMCG.
• Proven leadership record in operational excellence and business results.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement operational strategies aligned with company goals.
• Oversee poultry processing operations ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Establish quality assurance standards ensuring product quality and compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Financial analytics

Business strategy implementation

Operational excellence

Education

Degree in Operations Management or related field

Job description

Chief Operating Officer : Astral Foods | Mountain Valley - Astral

Astral Foods Ltd, through its Mountain Valley division, is seeking an experienced Chief Operating Officer (COO) to oversee all aspects of our poultry processing environment.

The ideal candidate will have a proven track record at senior management level within the poultry and/or FMCG industry, demonstrating the ability to drive revenue growth, operational excellence, profitability, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

Proven ability to implement business strategies to optimize production efficiency and profitability.

About Us : Astral Foods is South Africa's leading integrated poultry producer, delivering high-quality products through an end-to-end value chain—from farm to retail shelf.

Why This Role Matters : As COO, you'll oversee both Agriculture and Commercial divisions in a high-output poultry environment, driving sustainable growth, operational performance, and product excellence.

Required Qualifications : A degree in Operations Management or related field.

Required Experience : Minimum of 10 years in operations management, preferably in poultry processing or FMCG, with a proven leadership record in operational excellence and business results. Poultry experience is an advantage. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. Financial analytics and business acumen are essential.

Responsibilities :

• Develop and implement operational strategies aligned with company goals to drive growth and profitability.
• Oversee poultry processing operations, from live bird intake to final product dispatch, ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Establish quality assurance standards ensuring product quality, safety, and regulatory compliance.
• Optimize sales and product margins, innovate products, and enhance revenue growth.
• Manage supply chain for optimal inventory, sales mix, and timely delivery.
• Collaborate on budgets, monitor expenses, and implement cost-saving initiatives.
• Identify risks and develop mitigation strategies.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, environmental, and labor regulations.
• Stay updated on industry trends and emerging technologies for innovation.
• Lead operational teams, set goals, and foster a collaborative environment.

Closing Date : 14 July

Location: Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Employment type: Full-time