Managing Director (Environmental / Manufacturing)

Headhunters; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 400,000 - 500,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent environmental and manufacturing firm in Gqeberha seeks an experienced Managing Director to lead its growth. Applicants should bring considerable leadership experience, strategic insight, and a commitment to sustainable practices. This role involves guiding company operations, driving strategic improvements, and fostering strong relationships with stakeholders. A Bachelor's degree in Business Administration is required.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a senior leadership role, preferably as an MD.
• Experience working in dynamic, fast-changing environments.
• Alignment with the company’s mission and values.

Responsibilities

• Guide the company’s strategy and operations.
• Drive business growth and operational efficiency.
• Build and maintain strong stakeholder relationships.

Skills

Financial acumen

Strategic leadership

Interpersonal skills

Problem-solving

Team building

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or equivalent

Job description

Managing Director (Environmental / Manufacturing)

Reference 598880706

Sector Manufacturing / Management / Renewable Energy

Location Gqeberha

Job Type full_time

Experience 8 to 10 years

Qualifications No education

Package Negotiable

Description

Our client operating across the Environmental / Manufacturing sectors, is looking to employ an experienced and driven Managing Director, to be based in the Coega IDZ, Gqeberha.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

We’re looking for a strategic, grounded, and inspiring Managing Director who can lead our team and business into its next phase of growth. This role is about building trust across cultures, managing a growing operation, and bringing clarity and calm to a fast-evolving, high-impact business.

As MD, you’ll guide the company’s strategy, operations, and leadership team, as well as drive improvements, and build strong stakeholder relationships. You’ll be reporting to the Chairman of the Board, responsible for delivering business results efficiently and ensuring that the team is well taken care of, while holding true to our mission: to create clean energy systems that benefit people, land, and industry alike.

EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or equivalent.
• Proven experience in a senior leadership role, preferably as an MD or in senior management in a mission-driven or operationally complex environment.
• Experience working in dynamic, fast-changing environments (not just large, structured corporates) is preferred.
• Strong business and financial acumen and experience in managing budgets, financial forecasts, and reporting.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to learn quickly and adapt to new industries.
• A people-first mindset, with exceptional interpersonal skills and a strong focus on team building and relationships.
• Alignment with the company’s mission, vision, and corporate values, with a passion for sustainable practices.
• Prior exposure to energy, agriculture, manufacturing, or environmental sectors is a plus, but not required.
• Familiarity with both South African and European business or cultural contexts would be beneficial.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Strategic Leadership:

• Set the long-term strategy in close alignment with the Board and the company’s mission.
• Execute strategic plans to drive business growth and operational efficiency.
• Identify growth opportunities, operational improvements, and partnership potential.
• Balance business performance with long-term impact, staying rooted in sustainability.
• Display solid Business Acumen: Deep understanding of market trends, financials, operations, and industry-specific challenges.
• Change Management: Drive transformation, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Operational Excellence:

• Performance Management: Set objectives, monitor KPIs, and ensure accountability across departments.
• Oversee daily operations to ensure alignment with the company's goals and objectives.
• Oversee financial and operational performance, from budgeting, resource allocation and cost control to supply chain and compliance.
• Evaluate the company's financial, operational, and sales and marketing structures to plan for continual improvements and a continual increase in operating efficiencies.
• Implement and enforce company policies and procedures; ensure company operates in line with its licenses and ESG-related topics.
• Project and Risk Management: Oversee major projects, identify risks, and put mitigation strategies in place.
• Identify hurdles and make recommendations on efficiency, growth, and control initiatives.
• Process Optimization: Streamline systems and processes for efficiency and scalability.
• Champion continuous improvement across all functions.

Financial Management:

• Interpret financial reports, manage budgets, and make investment decisions.
• Cost Control & Revenue Growth: Balance expenditure while identifying and developing revenue streams.

Team & Culture:

• Team Building & Empowerment: Recruit top talent, build cohesive teams, and empower staff at all levels.
• Lead, support, and develop the company’s leadership team across departments and geographies.
• Cultivate a positive workplace culture, in line with our corporate values, that inspires commitment, collaboration and engagement.
• Communicate effectively and establish credibility and transparency throughout the organization.
• Conflict Resolution: Navigate internal and external disputes constructively.

External Relations:

• Clear, persuasive communication with the board, shareholders, employees, and external partners.
• Represent the company with integrity to customers, funders, regulators, and community partners.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, government, clients, community, and partners.
• Cultivate strong relationships across South Africa and Europe.
• Be a visible, credible ambassador for the company’s work in the clean energy transition.
• Negotiation & Influence: Lead negotiations and influence outcomes in high-stakes environments.

Governance & Compliance:

• Corporate Governance: Ensure ethical leadership and compliance with legal and regulatory standards.
• Decision-Making Integrity: Act with accountability, transparency, and in the best interest of the organization.

Sustainability and Social Responsibility:

• Environmental Stewardship: Promote sustainable business practices.
• Community Impact: Ensure the company contributes positively to local and global communities.

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