Chief Operations Officer

CLS; Lichtenburg; On-site; ZAR 800 000 - 1 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading poultry producer in Lichtenburg is seeking an experienced Chief Operations Officer (COO) to oversee daily operations across Processing, Feeds, Retail, and Fleet divisions. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in operational management and strategic planning. This position requires strong leadership skills and a commitment to ethical business practices while driving organisational success. Competitive compensation is offered.

Qualifications

• At least 7 years in a senior managerial role.
• Proven leadership at a senior management level.
• Operational management in a complex, multi-division environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee daily operations in Processing, Feeds, Retail, and Fleet.
• Collaborate with the CEO on long- and short-term strategies.
• Ensure adherence to legal and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Strong negotiation and reasoning skills

Advanced decision-making and problem-solving abilities

Ability to work under pressure

High level of integrity and accountability

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Education

National Senior Certificate / Grade 12

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field

Honours degree or MBA

Job description

Introduction

Our client, based in Lichtenburg, North West, is a leading, fully integrated poultry producer specialising in high-quality, farm-fresh chicken products. They are seeking an experienced and dynamic Chief Operations Officer (COO) to lead and manage day-to-day operations across Processing, Feeds, Retail, and Fleet divisions. This role requires a strategic thinker with strong operational expertise, proven leadership capabilities, and a commitment to driving organisational success while upholding ethical business practices.

Job Purpose

To ensure the smooth, efficient, and compliant functioning of all operational aspects of the business while supporting the CEO in executing the company’s vision, mission, and long-term strategies.

Requirements

Minimum Education (Essential)

• National Senior Certificate / Grade 12

Minimum Education (Advantageous)

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (Honours degree or MBA is a distinct advantage)

Minimum Applicable Experience (Years)

• At least 7 years in a senior managerial role

Required Nature of Experience

• Proven leadership at a senior management level
• Operational management in a complex, multi-division environment
• Strategic planning, budgeting, and forecasting
• Financial management, including profit & loss, balance sheets, and cash flow
• Stakeholder and partner relationship management
• Human resource and personnel management principles
• Compliance with corporate governance and industry regulations

Skills and Knowledge (Essential)

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong negotiation and reasoning skills
• Advanced decision-making and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities
• High level of integrity, accountability, and ethical leadership
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Other

• Own transport and valid driver’s licence

Key Performance Areas

Operational Leadership & Management

• Lead and oversee daily operations in Processing, Feeds, Retail, and Fleet.
• Monitor managerial performance, implement improvements, and take corrective actions where necessary.
• Ensure operational efficiency and productivity across divisions.
• Align operations with the company’s vision, mission, and goals.

Strategic Planning & Execution

• Collaborate with the CEO and executive committee on long- and short-term strategies.
• Drive operational strategies in alignment with corporate objectives.
• Forecast future operational requirements and develop plans accordingly.
• Provide accurate and timely reports to support strategic decision-making.

Compliance & Governance

• Ensure adherence to legal, regulatory, and corporate governance requirements.
• Oversee industry compliance and risk management processes.
• Maintain up-to-date records, filings, and regulatory documentation.

Financial Management

• Manage budgets, forecasts, and cost controls to ensure profitability.
• Analyse financial data to improve operational performance.
• Ensure sound cash flow management and resource allocation.

Stakeholder Engagement & Culture Development

• Build and maintain trusted relationships with partners, stakeholders, and employees.
• Foster a corporate culture of ethical practices, customer focus, and service excellence.
• Encourage teamwork, innovation, and professional growth across the organisation.