Lead Sanitation Operations Manager

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Training opportunities

PTO & holidays

Company vehicle / travel allowance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Sanitation Operations Manager to oversee sanitation across George, Western Cape. This senior role drives strategic planning, execution, and management of all sanitation activities, leading large teams and complex projects to ensure hygiene and compliance.

You will optimize operations, maintain client satisfaction, and ensure adherence to health, safety and environmental regulations, with travel within the George area as required and opportunities for advanced

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years in sanitation or cleaning operations management.
• Proven leadership of large teams and diverse environments.
• Strong knowledge of cleaning technologies, chemicals, and equipment.
• Solid understanding of SA health and safety regulations (OHS Act).
• Proven budgeting, financial acumen and cost control experience.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Degree or diploma in Hospitality Management or Business Administration is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic sanitation plans and procedures.
• Oversee daily operations of multiple sanitation teams.
• Conduct quality control inspections and site assessments.
• Train, mentor, and evaluate cleaning staff.
• Enforce health, safety, and environmental protocols.
• Manage procurement and inventory of supplies and equipment.
• Develop and manage operational budgets and cost savings.
• Serve as primary contact for key clients and manage relationships.
• Analyze operational data and identify efficiency improvements.
• Prepare operational reports with performance metrics and recommendations.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Health & Safety

Strategic planning

Quality control

Communication

MS Office

Education

Degree or Diploma in Hospitality Management or Business Administration

Tools

MS Office

Operational management systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a prominent provider of specialized cleaning services, and they are seeking an experienced and dynamic Lead Sanitation Operations Manager to oversee their operations in George, Western Cape . This senior position is responsible for the strategic planning, execution, and management of all sanitation activities, ensuring the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene across diverse commercial and industrial settings. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional leadership capabilities, a deep understanding of advanced cleaning methodologies, and a proven track record in managing large operational teams and complex projects. You will play a critical role in optimizing operational efficiency, maintaining client satisfaction, and ensuring strict adherence to all health and safety regulations. This is a challenging yet rewarding role for a dedicated professional looking to advance their career in the Western Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic sanitation plans and operational procedures to meet client requirements and regulatory standards.
• Oversee the daily operations of multiple sanitation teams, ensuring efficient deployment of resources and personnel.
• Conduct regular quality control inspections and site assessments to maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
• Manage, train, mentor, and evaluate cleaning staff, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Implement and enforce strict health, safety, and environmental protocols, ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation.
• Manage the procurement and inventory of cleaning supplies, chemicals, and equipment, optimizing usage and cost-effectiveness.
• Develop and manage operational budgets, monitoring expenses and identifying opportunities for cost savings.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for key clients, addressing concerns, resolving issues, and building strong professional relationships.
• Analyze operational data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and areas for strategic improvement in service delivery.
• Prepare comprehensive operational reports for senior management, including performance metrics, financial summaries, and strategic recommendations.

Requirements

• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in sanitation, cleaning operations management, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience in managing large teams and diverse operational environments.
• Strong knowledge of cleaning technologies, chemicals, equipment, and best practices in industrial and commercial sanitation.
• Solid understanding of health and safety regulations (e.g., OHS Act) and environmental standards relevant to South Africa.
• Proven leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams.
• Excellent financial acumen and experience in budget management.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in relevant software, including MS Office and potentially specialized operational management systems.
• A degree or diploma in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field is advantageous.
• Willingness to work flexible hours and travel within the George area as required.

Benefits

• An attractive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Performance-based bonuses and incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional certifications.
• Paid time off and public holidays.
• Company vehicle or travel allowance.
• Exposure to a diverse range of clients and challenging projects in the Western Cape .