Head of Environmental Services - Sanitation Operations

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

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package with performance-based.

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Head of Environmental Services to oversee sanitation and cleaning across Johannesburg properties. The role leads a large team, manages budgets, and ensures strict hygiene, safety and environmental compliance in line with COSHH and local regulations.

You will drive cleaning strategies, monitor quality, and liaise with property management to deliver exceptional service at scale in Gauteng.

Qualifications

• 8+ years in cleaning and sanitation management, with at least 3 years in a supervisory role.
• Proven track record leading large cleaning teams in commercial/industrial settings.
• Deep knowledge of cleaning chemicals, equipment, safety procedures and waste management.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement and manage strategic cleaning and sanitation programs for diverse commercial environments.
• Lead, train and motivate a large team of cleaning supervisors and operatives.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety and environmental regulations including COSHH and waste guidelines.
• Manage procurement and inventory of cleaning supplies, equipment and consumables to control costs.
• Conduct regular site inspections and quality audits to maintain high cleanliness standards.
• Develop and manage departmental budgets and ensure financial targets are met.
• Implement innovative cleaning technologies and sustainable practices to improve efficiency.
• Serve as primary client contact for sanitation services and address issues promptly.
• Oversee maintenance of cleaning equipment and machinery.
• Foster a culture of safety and continuous improvement in the department.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Communication

Interpersonal skills

MS Office proficiency

Education

National Diploma or Degree in Hospitality Management

Facilities Management

Environmental Health

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

About the Role Our client, a major facilities management provider, is seeking an experienced and dedicated Head of Environmental Services to oversee sanitation and cleaning operations across multiple large-scale commercial properties in **Johannesburg, Gauteng**. This senior leadership role is responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive cleaning strategies, ensuring the highest standards of hygiene, safety, and environmental compliance. You will lead a large team of cleaning staff and supervisors, manage budgets, and liaise with property management to ensure seamless service delivery. A deep understanding of cleaning technologies, chemical safety, and waste management protocols is essential for this critical **Johannesburg** role.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage strategic cleaning and sanitation programs for diverse commercial environments.
• Lead, train, and motivate a large team of cleaning supervisors and operatives to achieve exceptional service delivery.
• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations, including COSHH and waste disposal guidelines.
• Manage the procurement and inventory of cleaning supplies, equipment, and consumables, optimizing costs.
• Conduct regular site inspections and quality audits to maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
• Develop and manage departmental budgets, ensuring financial targets are met.
• Implement innovative cleaning technologies and sustainable practices to enhance efficiency and environmental performance.
• Act as the primary point of contact for clients regarding sanitation services and address any service-related issues promptly.
• Oversee the proper functioning and maintenance of all cleaning equipment and machinery.
• Foster a culture of safety and continuous improvement within the environmental services department.

Requirements

• National Diploma or Degree in Hospitality Management, Facilities Management, Environmental Health, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in cleaning and sanitation management, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or management role.
• Proven track record in managing large cleaning teams and complex cleaning operations in commercial or industrial settings.
• In-depth knowledge of cleaning chemicals, equipment, safety procedures, and waste management.
• Strong understanding of relevant health, safety, and environmental legislation in South Africa.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in budget management and financial reporting.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience working within the **Gauteng** region is preferred for understanding local operational dynamics in **Johannesburg**.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive salary package, performance-based bonuses, medical aid, and a retirement fund.
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression within a growing organization are significant.
• This role provides the chance to lead and make a substantial impact on the operational standards of major commercial properties in **Johannesburg**.