Lead Consultant - Operations Excellence

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package

Bonuses

Health insurance

Pension & life

Certifications

Training programs

Travel allowance

Career progression

Collaborative culture

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Consultant in Durban to drive Operations Excellence. You will lead project teams, map and redesign processes, and implement lean/Six Sigma initiatives to boost efficiency and cut costs. The role blends office strategy with on-site client work throughout KwaZulu-Natal.

The ideal candidate has 6+ years in operational consulting, deep lean, Six Sigma knowledge, and strong communication skills to influence stakeholders across industries. Travel to client sites is expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or related quantitative field.
• Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in operational consulting or related.
• Proven experience leading teams and managing complex projects.
• Lean principles and Six Sigma knowledge; Green/Black Belt preferred.
• Strong analytical and data-driven problem solving.
• Excellent client-facing and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in supply chain, manufacturing, or service operations.
• Willingness to travel to client sites in Durban and surrounding KwaZulu-Natal province.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage consulting engagements focused on operational improvement and efficiency gains.
• Conduct detailed process mapping, analysis, and redesign initiatives.
• Implement lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence methodologies.
• Develop and execute strategies for supply chain optimization and cost reduction.
• Facilitate workshops and training sessions for client teams on operational best practices.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets to ensure successful delivery.
• Build strong rapport and collaborative relationships with client stakeholders at all levels.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities within existing and potential client accounts.
• Mentor and guide junior consultants, promoting knowledge sharing and skill development.
• Prepare and deliver high-impact presentations and reports to client leadership.

Skills

Lean principles

Six Sigma

Data-driven

Client-facing

Project leadership

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's preferred

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier management consultancy, is actively seeking a dynamic Lead Consultant specializing in Operations Excellence to join their growing practice in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is ideal for a strategic thinker with a passion for driving operational improvements and implementing best practices within client organizations. You will lead project teams, manage client relationships, and deliver tangible results that enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve overall performance. The position requires a deep understanding of process optimization, supply chain management, and lean methodologies. You will work closely with senior management across various industries to identify bottlenecks, streamline operations, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. This role is based in our Durban office, offering a blend of office-based strategy formulation and on-site client implementation support within the KwaZulu-Natal region. Be part of a firm recognized for its impactful client solutions and employee development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage consulting engagements focused on operational improvement and efficiency gains.
• Conduct detailed process mapping, analysis, and redesign initiatives.
• Implement lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence methodologies.
• Develop and execute strategies for supply chain optimization and cost reduction.
• Facilitate workshops and training sessions for client teams on operational best practices.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets to ensure successful delivery.
• Build strong rapport and collaborative relationships with client stakeholders at all levels.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities within existing and potential client accounts.
• Mentor and guide junior consultants, promoting knowledge sharing and skill development.
• Prepare and deliver high-impact presentations and reports to client leadership.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related quantitative field.
• A Master's degree is advantageous.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in operational consulting, process improvement, or a similar role.
• Proven experience leading teams and managing complex operational transformation projects.
• In-depth knowledge of lean principles, Six Sigma methodologies (Green/Black Belt certification preferred).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach.
• Excellent client-facing and interpersonal communication skills.
• Experience in supply chain management, manufacturing, or service operations is essential.
• Demonstrated ability to influence change and drive results in challenging environments.
• Proficiency in relevant software and analytical tools.
• Willingness to travel to client sites within Durban and the surrounding KwaZulu-Natal province.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Pension fund contributions and life insurance benefits.
• Extensive training programs and opportunities for professional certifications.
• Exposure to diverse industries and impactful client projects.
• A supportive and collaborative team culture.
• Regular performance reviews and clear career progression paths.
• Company car or travel allowance for business travel.