Senior Director of Operations

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 4,000,000 - 6,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity options

Performance bonuses

Executive health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Retirement plan with company match

Leadership development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Director of Operations to lead expansive operational initiatives with strategic oversight of Randburg, Gauteng, SA. The role is fully remote, requiring visionary leadership to shape strategy, drive performance, and ensure operational excellence across divisions.

You will oversee supply chain, logistics, customer service, and process improvement, manage large budgets, and align operations with the company's strategic vision.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field.
• 12–15 years of progressive experience in operations management, with 7+ years in a senior executive leadership role.
• Proven track record of leading large-scale operations and driving growth and transformation.
• Experience in strategic planning, financial management, and operational optimisation.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and influencing skills with remote teams.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities with a data-driven approach.
• Demonstrated success in change management and implementing complex operational initiatives.
• Expertise in ERP systems and project management methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute long-term operational strategies to achieve objectives and market leadership.
• Oversee and direct all operational functions, including supply chain, logistics, customer service, and process improvement.
• Lead, mentor, and inspire a high-performing team of operational leaders and staff across departments.
• Drive operational excellence initiatives, implementing best practices and innovative solutions to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
• Establish and monitor KPIs, ensuring accountability and performance improvements.
• Manage significant operational budgets, ensuring financial discipline and optimal resource allocation.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to align operational strategies with company goals.
• Identify and mitigate operational risks, ensuring business continuity and regulatory compliance.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and employee engagement.
• Represent the company in strategic partnerships and industry forums.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Financial management

Change management

Data-driven decision making

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Business Administration or related field

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading organisation seeking an accomplished and strategic Senior Director of Operations to lead their expansive operational initiatives. This is a premier opportunity for a seasoned executive to drive significant impact within a fully remote capacity. Based virtually but with strategic oversight of operations impacting Randburg, Gauteng, ZA , this role demands a visionary leader capable of shaping operational strategy, optimizing performance across multiple divisions, and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence. You will be responsible for the overall efficiency and effectiveness of our client's operational framework, guiding teams towards ambitious goals and ensuring alignment with the company's strategic vision. This position requires exceptional leadership acumen and a deep understanding of complex operational landscapes.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute long-term operational strategies to achieve company objectives and market leadership.
• Oversee and direct all operational functions, including supply chain, logistics, customer service, and process improvement.
• Lead, mentor, and inspire a high-performing team of operational leaders and staff across various departments.
• Drive operational excellence initiatives, implementing best practices and innovative solutions to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), ensuring accountability and driving performance improvements.
• Manage significant operational budgets, ensuring financial discipline and optimal resource allocation.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to align operational strategies with overall business goals.
• Identify and mitigate operational risks, ensuring business continuity and compliance with regulations.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and employee engagement.
• Represent the company in strategic partnerships and industry forums.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field.
• A minimum of 12-15 years of progressive experience in operations management, with at least 7 years in a senior executive leadership role.
• Proven track record of successfully leading large-scale operations and driving significant business growth and transformation.
• Extensive experience in strategic planning, financial management, and operational optimisation.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and influencing skills, with the ability to manage remote teams effectively.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities with a data-driven approach.
• Demonstrated success in change management and implementing complex operational initiatives.
• Expertise in relevant operational software, ERP systems, and project management methodologies.
• Ability to operate autonomously and lead effectively in a fully remote environment.
• A forward-thinking mindset with a passion for operational excellence.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive executive compensation package, including a substantial base salary, performance-based bonuses, and equity options. This fully remote position provides ultimate flexibility and the opportunity to work from anywhere. Comprehensive executive health, dental, and vision insurance plans are provided. A generous retirement savings plan with company matching is available. Our client invests heavily in leadership development and offers numerous opportunities for professional growth. You will be part of an innovative and dynamic culture at the forefront of its industry, making a significant strategic impact.