Head of Operations

Wasteplan; Durban; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 700 000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Head of Operations to lead their waste management business. This pivotal role demands a strategic thinker who can optimize daily operations while ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. The successful candidate will develop and implement operational strategies, manage resources effectively, and foster a collaborative team culture. With a focus on continuous improvement and operational excellence, this position offers the opportunity to make a significant impact in a dynamic and essential industry. Join a forward-thinking company committed to sustainability and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years experience in a similar role with 3 years in senior management.
• Knowledge in waste management and recycling is essential.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations and ensure compliance with regulations.
• Drive efficiency and develop operational plans to meet objectives.
• Recruit and develop a high-performing operations team.

Skills

Strategic Thinking

Operational Efficiency

SHEQ Compliance

Team Leadership

Cost Management

Quality Control

Resource Management

Education

Diploma or Degree in Operations/Business Management

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

The Head of Operations will be responsible for overseeing and optimizing the day-to-day operational activities of our waste management business. This role requires a strategic thinker with a hands-on approach to drive efficiency, SHEQ compliance, and excellence in operations. The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping and implementing operational strategies, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and cultivating a good working relationship between the three major operational departments (Commercial Operations, Transport and Material Recovery Facilities).

Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

1. Provide strategic direction and leadership to the operations team
2. Develop and implement operational plans to achieve business objectives
3. Drive efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and performance excellence in daily operations
4. Ensure production targets are reached within the operational departments. This includes but is not limited to, ad hoc work completion, MRF processing production targets, recyclable sales

Regulatory Compliance

1. Stay abreast of relevant environmental regulations and ensure compliance
2. Collaborate with regulatory bodies and stakeholders to maintain permits and licenses

Resource Management

1. Oversee the allocation and utilization of resources, including personnel, equipment, and facilities
2. Optimize routes and schedules to enhance operational efficiency
3. In conjunction with departmental managers, work to maintain a high standard within our fleet and operational equipment in terms of cleanliness of our vehicles, maintenance upkeep to avoid downtime and maintain a reputable and presentable brand with our clients and other stakeholders
4. Cost management throughout the departments
5. Ensure efficient management of all stock purchased

Safety and Environmental Compliance

1. Champion a safety-first culture, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations
2. Implement and monitor environmental best practices
3. Ensure SHEQ systems are implemented and maintained with inspections completed regularly, and ISO standards are maintained
4. Identify and implement technology solutions to enhance operational effectiveness
5. Evaluate and recommend new tools or systems for waste management operations
6. Ensuring effective use of our internal information systems to ensure accurate reporting and correct financial transactions / management

Team Development

1. Recruit, train, and develop a high-performing operations team
2. Foster a collaborative and results-oriented work environment, by cultivating team culture that encourages unity, innovation and creativity within the team
3. Create a structure within the team to ensure time off for all team members and capacity for growth

Quality Assurance

1. Implement and maintain quality control measures to ensure service excellence, hereby ensuring client satisfaction and retention
2. Monitor and analyse performance metrics to identify areas for improvement

Administrational Oversight / Intervention

1. Accuracy of operational management accounts to be maintained
2. Annual budgets and projections
3. Efficient management of operational payroll
4. Coordinate information between administrative departments to ensure client reporting and billing deadlines are met, and accurate
5. Have a clear understanding of the various digital systems within the business, to be able to investigate discrepancies and provide feedback timeously

Requirements

1. A relevant diploma or degree in operations / business management
2. Minimum 7 years working experience in a similar role
3. Minimum of 3 years senior management experience is required
4. Knowledge and experience in related waste management and recycling
5. High proficiency in Microsoft Office is essential
6. Valid drivers license and own vehicle
7. A willingness to, at times, work on holidays / weekends and evenings if operations require it