Lead Cleaning Operations Manager

Placements24; Kempton Park; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonuses

Medical aid scheme

Professional development opportunities

Training programs and workshops

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Cleaning Operations Manager to oversee extensive cleaning operations in and around Tembisa, Gauteng. This senior role requires strategic leadership to manage large contracts and optimize service delivery across multiple sites.

You will mentor supervisors, control budgets, and drive safety, quality, and client satisfaction while implementing innovative cleaning solutions and technologies in a dynamic industrial setting.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years in cleaning operations management with senior leadership exposure.
• Experience managing multi-site cleaning operations and large teams.
• Deep knowledge of cleaning methods, equipment, chemicals, and safety standards.
• Strong budgeting, cost control and financial acumen within service delivery.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day cleaning operations to meet and exceed SLAs.
• Develop strategic plans to improve efficiency, cost-effectiveness and quality.
• Lead and develop supervisors and staff, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Manage budgets, costs, and resource allocation for labor and equipment.
• Conduct site assessments and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Implement QA programs, gather client feedback, and drive improvements.
• Maintain key client relationships as primary operational contact.
• Source and adopt new cleaning technologies and sustainable practices.
• Ensure adherence to company policies and industry best practices in Gauteng.
• Deliver training programs on cleaning techniques, safety, and service.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Client relationship management

Negotiation

Communication

Education

Relevant tertiary qualification in Operations Management or Business Administration

Tools

MS Office

Operations management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent provider of integrated facility services, is actively seeking an experienced and driven Lead Cleaning Operations Manager to oversee their extensive operations in and around Tembisa, Gauteng . This senior position requires a strategic thinker with a proven track record in managing large-scale cleaning contracts, ensuring exceptional service delivery, and optimizing operational efficiency. The successful candidate will be instrumental in leading a dedicated team, implementing innovative cleaning solutions, and upholding the highest standards of hygiene and safety across diverse client environments. This role is critical to maintaining our client's reputation for excellence and is based in the vibrant industrial area of Tembisa .

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day management of all cleaning operations, ensuring service level agreements (SLAs) are consistently met and exceeded.
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to enhance cleaning efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and service quality.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of operational supervisors and cleaning staff, fostering a positive and high-performance culture.
• Manage budgets, control operational costs, and optimize resource allocation, including labor, equipment, and supplies.
• Conduct regular site assessments and performance evaluations to ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Implement and monitor quality assurance programs, gathering client feedback and implementing necessary improvements.
• Manage key client relationships, acting as the primary point of contact for operational matters and ensuring client satisfaction.
• Source, evaluate, and implement new cleaning technologies and sustainable practices.
• Ensure adherence to all company policies, procedures, and industry best practices in Tembisa.
• Develop and deliver comprehensive training programs for staff on cleaning techniques, safety protocols, and customer service.

Requirements

• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in cleaning operations management, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role.
• Demonstrated success in managing multi-site cleaning operations and large teams.
• In-depth knowledge of cleaning methods, equipment, chemicals, and safety standards (e.g., COSHH, OHS Act).
• Strong financial acumen with experience in budget management and cost control.
• Excellent leadership, communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• Proven ability to build and maintain strong client relationships.
• Experience with quality management systems and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Proficiency in relevant software, including MS Office and operational management tools.
• A relevant tertiary qualification in Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred.
• Ability to travel within the Gauteng region as required.

Benefits

This position offers a highly competitive remuneration package, including performance-based bonuses and a comprehensive medical aid scheme. Employees benefit from ample opportunities for professional growth through advanced training programs and workshops. Our client provides a stimulating work environment with a focus on innovation and employee well-being. You will have the chance to make a significant impact on a large scale within the Tembisa area and contribute to the company's continued success. This role comes with significant responsibility and the potential for future career progression within a rapidly expanding organization.