Head of Strategic Operations

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive package

Medical coverage

Pension fund

Wellness programs

Equity options

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Head of Strategic Operations in Centurion, Gauteng. This senior role leads long-term operational strategy, drives efficiency, and scales the business.

You will partner with executive leadership to align operations with company goals and oversee major initiatives and budgets. The ideal candidate holds a Master's degree (PhD a plus) and possesses 10+ years of progressive leadership in strategic operations, with a proven ability to manage large-scale transformation and

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Business Administration or Operations Management, or related field.
• PhD is an advantage for strategic leadership roles.
• Seasoned track record in strategic operations and transformations.
• Strong financial acumen and budget management experience.
• Excellent communication, presentation and stakeholder management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and champion the long-term strategic operational vision for the company.
• Oversee planning, implementation and execution of major operational initiatives and projects.
• Lead and develop high-performing teams across operational departments.
• Drive improvements in efficiency, cost reduction and quality.
• Identify trends and technologies relevant to operational strategy.
• Collaborate with cross-functional leaders for alignment and execution.
• Establish and monitor KPIs to measure success and identify improvements.
• Manage significant operational budgets and resource allocation.
• Advise executive leadership on strategic operational matters.
• Develop and maintain risk management frameworks for operations.

Job description

About the Role Our client is seeking a highly strategic and experienced Head of Strategic Operations to lead critical operational functions from their Centurion, Gauteng office. This is a pivotal leadership role focused on driving long-term operational strategy, enhancing efficiency, and ensuring the scalability of our client's business. The successful candidate will be responsible for aligning operational activities with overarching business goals, optimizing resource deployment, and fostering innovation across the operational landscape. This role demands a visionary leader with a deep understanding of complex operational environments and a proven ability to execute transformative strategies. You will work closely with executive leadership to shape the future of operations within the organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and champion the long-term strategic operational vision for the company.
• Oversee the planning, implementation, and execution of major operational initiatives and projects.
• Lead and develop high-performing teams across various operational departments.
• Drive significant improvements in operational efficiency, cost reduction, and quality.
• Identify emerging trends and technologies relevant to operational strategy and implementation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional leaders to ensure strategic alignment and synergistic execution.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure operational success and identify areas for improvement.
• Manage significant operational budgets and ensure optimal allocation of resources.
• Serve as a key advisor to the executive leadership team on all strategic operational matters.
• Develop and maintain robust risk management frameworks for operational activities.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field. A PhD is an advantage.
• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in strategic operations, business development, or a related field.
• Demonstrated success in developing and executing complex, long-term operational strategies.
• Extensive experience in process re-engineering, change management, and driving large-scale transformation.
• Exceptional analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Outstanding leadership and people management skills, with a proven ability to inspire and motivate teams.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing large operational budgets.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience in a high-growth industry or technology-focused environment is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive executive compensation package, including a significant base salary, substantial bonus potential, and long-term equity options.
• Comprehensive benefits include top-tier medical coverage, a generous pension fund, and executive wellness programs.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development, leadership training, and attendance at industry conferences are provided.
• The role is based in our modern Centurion, Gauteng office, offering a collaborative and dynamic work environment.
• Join a forward-thinking organization where your strategic vision will directly shape the company's future success.