General Manager Operations (KZN)

Talent Fox SA; Durban; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 750,000; Full time

Job summary

A national Transport & Logistics company seeks a seasoned General Manager Operations to oversee branches in KZN. This senior role involves operational excellence, team leadership, compliance, and strategic oversight within a high-performance logistics network. The position demands strong management experience, a relevant degree, and a focus on customer engagement.

Qualifications

• 8–10 years’ operational experience in logistics, with at least 5 years in a regional/senior role.
• Strong commercial understanding, including financial management and P&L oversight.
• Valid driver’s license and own transport essential.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership to Branch Managers and oversee regional operations.
• Standardise operational processes and drive service level improvements.
• Manage compliance, risks, and financial performance across branches.

Skills

Leadership

Operational Excellence

Service Delivery

Compliance Management

Financial Management

Customer Engagement

Education

Relevant degree or diploma in Logistics, Transport, Business or Operations Management

Tools

Logistics Systems

Data Reporting Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Our client, a national Transport & Logistics company, is seeking a seasoned General Manager Operations to oversee its branches across KZN. This is a senior role that requires someone passionate about operational excellence, service delivery, compliance, and team leadership across the road freight supply chain.

This is a critical leadership role in a high-performance logistics network where collaboration, improvement, and delivery are essential.

Main Functions:

1) Regional Leadership & Oversight
• Provide direct leadership to the Branch Managers
• Act as the strategic link between regional operations and national leadership.
• Foster cross-branch collaboration and alignment with organisational goals.

2) Operational Excellence & Service Delivery
• Standardise and optimise operational processes across all branches.
• Drive improvements in productivity, service levels, and operational cost control.
• Monitor daily branch performance and intervene where required to uphold delivery standards.

3) Compliance & Risk Management
• Enforce compliance with legal, safety, and operational regulations.
• Manage escalated risks, incidents, and complex disciplinary issues.
• Ensure all branches are audit-ready and follow internal SOPs consistently.

4) Financial & KPI Management
• Analyse and oversee branch-level P&Ls and regional budgets.
• Monitor performance indicators and initiate recovery or improvement plans where gaps are identified.
• Champion cost-saving initiatives while enhancing service outcomes.

5) People Development & Culture
• Mentor and develop Branch Managers and critical frontline leaders.
• Support HR in performance management, training, and succession planning.
• Foster a positive, high-performance work culture across branches.

6) Customer Engagement & Escalation Management
• Build and maintain key customer relationships at a regional level.
• Manage escalated service challenges and ensure sustainable customer solutions.

7) Strategic Reporting & Insight
• Consolidate and present monthly performance reports and operational insights to Executive Management.
• Drive data-informed decision-making and continuous improvement across the region.

Required Experience:
• Strong multi-site operations management experience in a road freight/logistics environment.
• Proven leadership track record with the ability to influence and manage diverse teams.
• Deep understanding of transport compliance, linehaul operations, and branch service delivery.
• Strategic thinker with strong operational execution ability.
• Passionate about teamwork, customer service, and driving accountability.
• Highly organised and adaptable in a dynamic, fast-moving environment.
• Clear communicator, approachable leader, and results-driven professional.

Minimum Requirements:
• Relevant degree or diploma in Logistics, Transport, Business or Operations Management.
• 8–10 years’ operational experience in logistics, with at least 5 years in a regional/senior role.
• Strong commercial understanding, including financial management and P&L oversight.
• In-depth knowledge of distribution models, regulatory compliance, and operational metrics.
• Proficiency in logistics systems, data reporting tools, and Microsoft Office.
• Valid driver’s license and own transport essential.
• Availability for travel and after-hours operational support.

Salary: R90 000 - R110 000 CTC per month (negotiable)

To apply, send your CV with the heading GENERAL MANAGER OPS.