Facilities & Operations Lead, Real Estate Portfolio

The Talent Room (Recruitment Solutions South Africa); George; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Job summary

Client in George is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead the portfolio's daily activities, overseeing leasing contracts, maintenance, and safety compliance. The role focuses on delivering high-quality facilities services and strategic budgeting to support tenants and retail partners.

You will manage cross-functional teams, coordinate third-party service providers, and report KPIs to Senior Management while maintaining stringent OH&S standards and cost control.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in operations management, facilities management, or commercial/retail centre management.
• Strong knowledge of building maintenance, tenant installations, and mechanical systems (HVAC, generators, water systems, fire protection, and BMS).
• Thorough working knowledge of the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act and statutory building/facility regulations.
• Demonstrated background managing third-party service providers, cleaning, security, and maintenance contracts.
• Strong financial acumen with experience in operational budget compiling, forecasting, and expense control.
• Proven team leadership capabilities with experience in staff supervision, performance appraisals, and task delegation.
• Excellent conflict resolution, tenant liaison, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to handle emergency situations, make sound operational decisions under pressure, and compile executive KPI reports.

Responsibilities

• Operational Planning & Policy: Develop short- and long-term operational plans, goals, and budget projections with Senior Management; establish and review Centre operational policies and procedures for maximum efficiency.
• Facilities & Maintenance Management: Oversee day-to-day facilities operations, building repairs, maintenance disciplines, and tenant installation / small project management.
• Mechanical & Technical Services: Direct and manage HVAC, emergency generators, pumps, irrigation, water management, lifts, fire systems, and Building Management Systems (BMS).
• Contractor & Vendor Oversight: Procure, negotiate, and coordinate third-party contractors and daily service providers (security, cleaning, waste/refuse removal, hygiene, pest control, and landscaping).
• OHS & Regulatory Compliance: Enforce compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act, municipal bylaws, and building regulations; conduct regular safety inspections and maintain compliance records.
• Security Management: Assess security risks, establish emergency response plans, coordinate security systems and guard deployment, and liaise with SAPS and local authorities.
• Financial & Cost Control: Monitor operating costs against budgets, process contractor orders and invoices, and track building expenditure schedules.
• Tenant & Stakeholder Relations: Manage operational leasing obligations, resolve tenant complaints promptly, respond to site emergencies, and promote positive corporate relations.
• Staff Supervision & Development: Provide daily direction, objective setting, task allocation, and performance appraisals for assigned Centre personnel.
• Executive Reporting: Compile and present KPI, Manco, foot-traffic, expense, and security incident reports to Senior Management.

Job description

Client in George is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead the portfolio's daily activities, overseeing leasing contracts, maintenance, and safety compliance. The role focuses on delivering high-quality facilities services and strategic budgeting to support tenants and retail partners.

You will manage cross-functional teams, coordinate third-party service providers, and report KPIs to Senior Management while maintaining stringent OH&S standards and cost control.