General Manager - Commercial

Elchemie Recruitment; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 750 000; Full time

Job summary

A national leader in Facilities and Cleaning is seeking an experienced General Manager to oversee multiple business units and drive operational and financial excellence. Ideal candidates should have 5–10 years of senior operational experience, strong leadership skills, and commercial management expertise. The role requires travel across sites, and offers a competitive package and opportunities for long-term career development.

Benefits

Competitive package based on experience

Long-term career development opportunities

Supportive work environment

Qualifications

• 5–10 years’ experience in a senior operational role within the cleaning, facilitation, or facilities industry.
• Proven commercial management experience, including budgeting, P&L, and contract negotiation.
• Valid driver's licence and own vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Oversee multiple business units and drive operational, financial, and client service excellence.
• Build and maintain professional client and supplier relationships.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and legislative requirements.

Skills

Strong leadership and communication skills

Commercial management experience

Understanding of SLA management

Knowledge of South African H&S and labour legislation

Education

Degree qualification (Business Management, Operations, Commerce)

Job description

Job Title

General Manager

Location

Gauteng Honeydew / Centurion

Industry

Facilities, Cleaning & Facilitation Services

Job Type

Permanent

Environment

High‑performance, people‑centric, client‑driven

About the Role

Our client, a national leader in Facilities, Cleaning and Facilitation Services, is seeking an experienced and commercially minded General Manager to oversee multiple business units and drive operational, financial, and client service excellence across the portfolio.

This senior leadership role requires a well‑spoken, confident individual with strong commercial and operational experience.

The ideal candidate will balance business growth with service quality, ensuring profitable, compliant, and sustainable operations while leading and developing high‑performing teams.

Responsibilities

Client & Supplier Management

• Build and maintain professional client and supplier relationships to ensure service excellence and long‑term partnerships.
• Oversee contract openings, transitions and conversions; ensure teams understand and deliver on responsibilities.
• Monitor service levels and SLA performance; ensure prompt resolution of issues and proactive client engagement.
• Participate in contract and SLA negotiations, ensuring cost‑effective service delivery and compliance.
• Review client feedback and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Commercial & Profitability Management

• Take full responsibility for P&L performance and budget control within your portfolio.
• Develop and implement strategies to meet revenue, cost, and profitability targets.
• Manage wage costs, overtime, and resource planning to align with revenue and budget goals.
• Maintain contract retention and identify new business or cross‑selling opportunities.
• Ensure financial reporting accuracy and alignment with the company’s business plan.

Leadership & Operational Management

• Provide leadership and direction to Operations Managers and Site Managers.
• Conduct performance reviews and develop succession and training plans for key staff.
• Ensure operational teams are aligned to business objectives and deliverables.
• Compile and submit consolidated operational, financial, and compliance reports to Top Management.
• Foster accountability, teamwork, and consistent feedback across all operational levels.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure compliance with company policies, Health & Safety regulations, and legislative requirements.
• Conduct and review OHS audits and incident investigations.
• Identify risks and ensure mitigation strategies are implemented.
• Maintain confidentiality and act in accordance with company ethics and professional standards.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Degree qualification (Business Management, Operations, Commerce, or related field) and Matric certificate.
• 5–10 years’ experience in a senior operational role within the cleaning, facilitation, or facilities industry.
• Proven commercial management experience – including budgeting, P&L, contract negotiation and cost control.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to manage diverse teams and clients.
• Excellent understanding of SLA management, operational reporting, and business profitability.
• Solid knowledge of South African H&S and labour legislation.

Essential

• Valid driver's licence and own vehicle (position requires travel).
• Clear criminal record.

What is in it for you?

Opportunity to lead operations for a respected national organization in the cleaning and facilities industry.

Competitive package

• CTC, dependent on experience and qualifications.

Strategic role with direct influence on growth, client retention, and operational performance.

Exposure to a performance‑focused, supportive environment offering long‑term career development.

Additional Information

This position reports directly to the Chief Operations Officer (COO).

The role involves regular travel between sites and operational regions.

The ideal candidate will have proven commercial and operational experience within the facilities or cleaning sector.

Successful appointments are subject to verification of qualifications, references, and a clear criminal record.

Ready to Apply?

Click Apply and please complete your application in full.

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