Picker - Industrial Automation

KnM City of Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa

Job Title: Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Location: Eastern Cape, South Africa

Industry: Component Manufacturing

Email for CV Submission:

Overview: MTEL is a leading product development and manufacturing company specializing in tablets, laptops, all-in-one computers, and mobile phones. With operations spanning South Africa and 54 other African countries, MTEL is at the forefront of technological innovation in the manufacturing sector.

Position Overview: The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will play a critical role in overseeing and optimizing MTEL's operations across all functions, ensuring the company's success in global expansion and operational efficiency. The COO will be responsible for driving operational strategies, managing cross-functional teams, and enhancing profitability while maintaining strong relationships with key clients and stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Leadership & Team Management: Lead and oversee the operational leadership team, including direct reports from IT, Production, R&D, QA, Supply Chain, HR, Logistics, and Finance. Foster a collaborative and efficient work environment, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and continuous operational improvement.
2. Strategic Planning & Global Expansion: Work closely with the CEO and executive team to develop and execute cohesive operational strategies for global growth. Lead the expansion into new markets, including the setup of local manufacturing facilities, distribution centers, and sales teams. Ensure efficient resource allocation across functions to support growth and maintain service delivery.
3. Operational Excellence: Develop and implement standardized processes and best practices across all operational functions. Regularly review processes and performance metrics, identifying and implementing areas for improvement to optimize production efficiency. Ensure that production and operational processes are scalable and aligned with customer demand.
4. Financial Management: Collaborate with the CFO to ensure that operational plans are financially viable and align with company goals. Oversee budget management and ensure costs are controlled across production, logistics, and labor expenses. Monitor capital expenditure projects and analyze ROI on investments. Manage working capital, inventory levels, and cash flow to optimize financial health.
5. Project Management: Oversee operational projects from budgeting to final delivery, ensuring timelines and costs are adhered to. Lead large-scale supply chain and procurement initiatives, including new system implementations. Provide regular updates to senior management on project milestones, achievements, and cost developments.
6. Research & Development: Drive the R&D strategy to enhance product development and innovation, aligning R&D efforts with market needs and industry trends. Foster collaboration between R&D, manufacturing, and sales teams to streamline product commercialization. Monitor competitor advancements to maintain the company's competitive edge.
7. Technology & Innovation: Lead the integration of advanced production technologies and automation systems to ensure operational efficiency. Implement plant information systems and data analytics tools to enhance operational reporting and decision-making.
8. Supply Chain & Logistics: Manage the entire supply chain process, from procurement to distribution, ensuring efficient and timely delivery of materials. Negotiate and manage agreements with global and local vendors to ensure quality, cost, and delivery standards are met. Optimize transportation, inventory, and logistics systems to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
9. Compliance & Risk Management: Ensure compliance with all local regulations, customs, and trade laws. Develop and implement risk assessments for new markets, considering political, economic, and regulatory risks. Ensure adherence to health, safety, environmental standards, and ISO certifications.
10. Human Resources: Align HR initiatives with operational goals, ensuring workforce planning supports production and logistics needs. Oversee employee performance management, training, and succession planning for key operational roles. Lead change management initiatives and foster a culture of collaboration, efficiency, and innovation.

Education & Qualifications:

1. Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field (e.g., Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or Business Administration).
2. Master's Degree in Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is highly desirable.
3. Certifications: Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, PMP, or CSCP are a plus.

Experience & Skills:

1. Experience: At least 5-7 years in senior leadership roles such as Production Manager, Operations Manager, General Manager, or similar.
2. Proven track record in operations management, particularly in the computer manufacturing, electronics, or technology hardware industries.
3. Expertise in computer assembly processes, PCB manufacturing, and component integration.
4. In-depth understanding of manufacturing processes, production planning, and quality control in a high-tech environment.
5. Experience managing global supply chains, procurement, and logistics for computer hardware components.
6. Familiarity with regulatory compliance in electronics manufacturing (e.g., ISO, RoHS, CE marking).
7. Proficiency in using ERP systems (SAP, Oracle) and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES).

Soft Skills:

1. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate with stakeholders at all levels.
2. Strong negotiation skills and experience managing supplier relationships.
3. Analytical problem-solving abilities to address operational challenges.
4. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, ever-evolving industry.
5. Strong cross-functional team management and leadership skills.

If you meet the qualifications and are excited about leading operations at MTEL, please submit your CV to:

Level: Executive

Employment type: Full-time

Job function: Management and Manufacturing

Industries: Accounting