Operations Manager

Switch Recruit Ltd; Durban; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm is looking for an Operations Manager in Durban, South Africa, to oversee operations in the petroleum industry. The role involves strategic oversight of fuel distribution, management of logistics providers, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Ideal candidates will have a tertiary qualification in Supply Chain Management and at least six years of experience in the road freight and petroleum sectors. This position offers a performance-based bonus and a fuel card.

Benefits

Performance-based bonus

Fuel card

Qualifications

• Minimum of six years’ experience in the road freight and petroleum industries.
• Ability to work flexible hours in line with operational requirements.
• Valid driver’s licence and reliable vehicle required.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic oversight of wholesale petroleum operations.
• Optimise fuel storage and distribution networks for efficiency.
• Manage third-party logistics providers and transporters.
• Monitor stock levels and demand forecasts to prevent shortages.
• Ensure compliance with relevant fuel legislation.

Skills

Management of cross-border logistics

Optimising transport operations

Knowledge of fuel industry regulations

Experience with ERP systems

Strategic oversight of operations

Education

Tertiary qualification in Supply Chain Management

Matric qualification

Job description

Step into a high-impact leadership role in the petroleum industry as an Operations Manager, where performance, precision, and results truly matter. This role offers the opportunity to drive operational excellence in a fast-paced, safety-critical environment. In addition, the role includes a performance-based bonus and a fuel card, rewarding both results and commitment. If you thrive on responsibility, enjoy making measurable improvements, and want to be part of an industry that powers the economy, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

An exciting opportunity exists for an experienced Operations Manager within a leading road freight operation, overseeing distribution across Africa. This role is ideal for a results-driven professional who thrives in managing cross-border logistics, optimising transport operations, and ensuring efficient, on-time delivery across multiple regions.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic oversight of wholesale petroleum operations, ensuring alignment with business objectives, market demand, and South African fuel regulations.
• Optimise fuel storage, distribution, and road freight networks to improve efficiency, cost control, and service reliability.
• Oversee bulk fuel storage, terminal operations, and road tanker transportation to ensure uninterrupted supply to customers.
• Manage third-party logistics providers, transporters, and storage facilities through SLAs and performance monitoring.
• Monitor stock levels, demand forecasts, and supply risks to prevent shortages, losses, or overstocking.
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, including the Petroleum Products Act, Dangerous Goods Regulations, and applicable SANS standards.
• Control operational budgets, logistics costs, losses, and variances in line with internal governance frameworks.
• Ensure fuel quality, safety standards, accurate reporting of fuel movements, and readiness for internal and regulatory audits.

Requirements

• Matric qualification is essential.
• A tertiary qualification in Supply Chain Management or a related field is required.
• A minimum of six years’ experience within the road freight and petroleum industries, with proven exposure to ERP systems.
• Strong knowledge of the fuel industry and the ability to work flexible hours in line with operational requirements.
• A valid driver’s licence and reliable vehicle are required.