Chief Operations Officer (COO)

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level compensation package

Health, dental, vision, and life insur

Company car or executive transport

Relocation assistance

Executive coaching and development

Job summary

[Our client] in Vereeniging, Gauteng, ZA seeks a visionary Chief Operations Officer to lead all day-to-day operations including production, HR, and admin. The role focuses on operational excellence, strategic alignment, and financial stewardship from our Vereeniging headquarters.

The COO will drive policy development, budget management, and cross-functional leadership, reporting to the CEO and Board. A senior executive with 15+ years in operations is required, with a PhD preferred.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field (PhD preferred).
• Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in operations management, with 7+ years in a senior executive role.
• Strong leadership, strategic thinking and financial acumen required.
• Experience in organizational development and change management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the company's operational strategy.
• Oversee all operational departments ensuring efficiency.
• Lead development and implementation of operational policies and procedures.
• Manage the company's operational budget and ensure financial targets are met.
• Drive process improvements and innovation across all operational functions.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legal, regulatory, and industry standards.
• Oversee human resources functions, including talent acquisition, development, and retention.
• Collaborate with other C-suite executives to develop and implement strategic plans.
• Monitor operational performance using key metrics and provide regular reports to the CEO and Board.
• Foster a high-performance culture and ensure effective cross-departmental collaboration.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Decision making

Communication skills

Stakeholder management

Organizational development

Change management

People management

Financial acumen

Executive leadership

Education

Master's degree in Business Administration or related field

PhD preferred

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an accomplished and visionary Chief Operations Officer (COO) to join their executive leadership team. This is a critical, office-based role requiring full dedication to our headquarters in Vereeniging, Gauteng, ZA . The COO will be responsible for overseeing all day-to-day operations of the company, including production, operations, human resources, and administrative functions. This executive position demands a strategic leader with a deep understanding of operational efficiency, financial management, and organizational development. The COO will drive operational excellence, implement best practices, and ensure the company's operational activities align with its long-term strategic goals. This is an unparalleled opportunity to shape the operational future of a growing enterprise.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the company's operational strategy to support its mission and overall vision.
• Oversee and manage all operational departments, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness.
• Lead the development and implementation of operational policies and procedures.
• Manage the company's operational budget and ensure financial targets are met.
• Drive process improvements and innovation across all operational functions.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legal, regulatory, and industry standards.
• Oversee human resources functions, including talent acquisition, development, and retention.
• Collaborate with other C-suite executives to develop and implement strategic plans.
• Monitor operational performance using key metrics and provide regular reports to the CEO and Board.
• Foster a high-performance culture and ensure effective cross-departmental collaboration.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field; PhD preferred.
• Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in operations management, with at least 7 years in a senior executive role (e.g., VP of Operations, COO).
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex operations and driving significant business growth.
• Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and decision-making skills.
• Strong financial acumen, including P&L management, budgeting, and forecasting.
• In-depth knowledge of operational best practices and industry trends.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience in organizational development and change management.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire large teams.
• Must be committed to working full-time from our Vereeniging, Gauteng, ZA office.

Benefits

• Executive-level compensation package, including substantial bonus and equity options.
• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Top-tier retirement savings plan with matching contributions.
• Executive coaching and professional development opportunities.
• Company car or executive transport allowance.
• Significant opportunities for impact and career advancement.
• Generous paid time off and executive perks.
• Relocation assistance for qualified candidates.
• Access to state-of-the-art executive facilities.
• A challenging and rewarding leadership role.