Chief Operating Officer - Cargo And Freight Sector

Ellahi Consulting, Company; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 1 200 000 - 1 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consulting firm in Johannesburg seeks a Chief Operating Officer to oversee operations in the Freight and Cargo sector. This role requires at least 10 years of experience in the Transport Industry and strong leadership skills. You will develop business strategies, manage teams, and ensure operational efficiency while aligning with the organization's objectives. This position offers a competitive salary and benefits.

Benefits

Fuel card

Cellphone

Qualifications

• At least 10 years in the Transport Industry and a minimum of 5 years' working experience in a leadership role.
• In-depth knowledge of diverse business functions and principles.
• Managerial experience and ability to develop and lead others.

Responsibilities

• Manage and drive leading negotiations, budgeting, and purchasing.
• Lead cross-functional teams and manage existing partnerships.
• Develop business strategies aligned with short- and long-term objectives.

Skills

Leadership

Critical thinking

Interpersonal skills

Project management

Financial analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Finance, or Business Management

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Chief Operating Officer – Cargo and Freight Sector

Location : Johannesburg, Gauteng

Industry : Freight / Cargo - EE Employment Equity position

CTC Salary : R

• pm Plus benefitsBenefits : Fuel card + Cellphone Main Purpose of the Job To manage and drive leading negotiations, budgeting, purchasing, and putting efficient workflows in place to enhance the company's productivity and performance.

Lead cross-functional teams, manage existing partnerships, and evaluate company business goals to drive operational efficiency, enhance organizational performance, and contribute to the achievement of the business objectives.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Finance, or Business Management (or equivalent qualification).

Minimum Experience

At least 10 years in the Transport Industry and a minimum of 5 years' working experience in a leadership role.

In-depth knowledge of diverse business functions and principles (e.g., supply chain, finance, customer service, etc.).

Experience in the aviation sector and road freight would be an advantage.

Managerial experience and demonstrated ability to develop and lead others.

Functional Training Leadership

Compliance Management Operations Management Business Risk Management Strategic Business Management Financial Systems and Controls Behavioural Competencies Working with people of diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives.

Strong alignment with the company's mission and values.

Ability to self-direct, take ownership, and see projects through to completion in a timely manner.

Excellent interpersonal skills.

Strong critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills.

Ability to extract meaning from numbers and present analysis clearly and concisely to people with varying degrees of financial knowledge.

Strong project management and organizational skills with a track record of developing and strengthening systems and processes.

Ability to work collaboratively, exercising good judgment, decision-making, and problem‑solving skills to achieve shared goals.

Ability to periodically participate in meetings and events outside of core business hours.

Technical Skills

High‑level proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Data and financial analytics.

Cost, revenue, and cash management.

Knowledge of Basic Conditions of Employment and Industrial Relations.

Environmental / Other Conditions

After‑hours work centered around decision‑making is required regularly in response to various operational challenges within the industry.

Organisational Leadership

Collaborate with the CEO and Executive team in setting and driving the organisational vision, including the operational strategy.

Meet with the organisation's leadership team on an ongoing basis to re‑evaluate action plans and adjust for sustainability and growth.

Develop business strategies and plans aligned with short‑ and long‑term objectives.

Oversee company operations and employee productivity, fostering a highly inclusive culture.

Set clear performance expectations and provide coaching and mentorship.

Monitor progress, evaluate performance, and adjust strategies to ensure successful execution.

Operational Strategy and Management

Develop and lead operational strategies supporting organisational objectives and growth.

Coordinate team efforts to align with organisational strategies.

Lead, streamline, and optimise operational processes for efficiency and cost‑effectiveness.

Drive continuous process improvements and implement best practices.

Foster effective cross‑departmental communication and collaboration.

Review and manage internal systems, controls, and procedures for compliance and accuracy.

Identify cost‑saving opportunities and optimise financial results.

Collaborate with finance to develop and manage operational budgets.

Control operational expenses considering budget and BEE requirements.

Business Analytics, Risk, and Reporting

Establish and analyse management reports to support business decisions and growth.

Monitor the macro‑environment for risks and implement mitigating actions.

Track operational and financial performance, and mitigate risks proactively.

Implement robust systems to manage risks and ensure continuity.

Conduct internal reviews for compliance and initiate corrective actions.

Analyse operations data and address underperformance.

Review departmental productivity and ensure objectives are met.

Track direct report deadlines to ensure timely results.

Audits and Regulatory Compliance

Ensure compliance with laws, regulations, and industry standards.

Monitor and communicate regulatory updates to the leadership team.

Develop relevant policy documents in line with legal and compliance requirements.

Maintain integrity and compliance of regulatory documentation.

Negotiate and approve supplier agreements and contracts.

Approve SLAs in consultation with stakeholders, aligning with company strategy.

Customer Service and Retention

Negotiate and manage partnership agreements with beneficial terms.

Build and maintain strong customer relationships and deliver solutions.

Conduct client / service provider meetings to identify new opportunities.

Develop