Senior Operations Manager - Cleaning Services

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Operations Manager to lead a large cleaning services division in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will drive strategic planning, oversee multiple teams and ensure contract compliance, quality, and profitability.

This executive role requires a proven track record in facilities management, strong financial acumen, and the ability to develop leaders while delivering exceptional service across the wine region.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years of progressive management experience in facilities management or contract cleaning.
• 4+ years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven track record of managing large-scale operations and complex contracts.
• Strong financial acumen with budget and P&L oversight.
• Excellent leadership, strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Outstanding client relationship management and negotiation abilities.
• Knowledge of cleaning methodologies, health and safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans for the cleaning division.
• Oversee daily operations of multiple cleaning teams and contracts to meet SLAs and quality standards.
• Manage budgets, P&L, and financial performance of the division.
• Lead and mentor a team of operations managers and supervisors.
• Drive efficiency, apply best practices and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Maintain strong client relationships and ensure needs are met.
• Ensure health, safety, environmental, and labour regulations are followed.
• Implement robust QA programs and performance metrics.
• Allocate resources to ensure efficient service delivery.
• Stay updated on industry innovations and technologies.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

People management

Budgeting

Client relationship management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration

Tools

MS Office Suite

Facilities management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished provider of integrated facilities management solutions, is seeking a dynamic and results-oriented Senior Operations Manager to lead their extensive cleaning services division in the scenic region of Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This senior management position is responsible for the strategic planning, execution, and oversight of all cleaning operations, ensuring optimal performance, client satisfaction, and financial profitability. The successful candidate will demonstrate exceptional leadership, a keen understanding of operational efficiencies, and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of hygiene and safety. This is a pivotal role for an experienced manager looking to drive growth and excellence in a key South African wine region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic plans for the cleaning services division, aligning with the company's overall business objectives.
• Oversee the daily operations of multiple cleaning teams and contracts, ensuring adherence to service level agreements (SLAs) and quality standards.
• Manage budgets, P&L responsibility, and financial performance of the cleaning operations division.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of operational managers and supervisors, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Drive operational efficiency, implement best practices, and identify opportunities for cost savings and service improvements.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key clients, ensuring their needs are met and satisfaction is maximized.
• Ensure strict compliance with all health, safety, environmental, and labour regulations.
• Implement and monitor robust quality assurance programs and performance metrics.
• Oversee resource allocation, including staffing, equipment, and supplies, to ensure efficient service delivery.
• Stay informed about industry innovations and emerging technologies to enhance service offerings.

Requirements

• A minimum of 8 years of progressive management experience in contract cleaning, facilities management, or a related service industry, with at least 4 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven track record of managing large-scale operations, complex contracts, and multi-disciplinary teams.
• Strong financial acumen, with demonstrated experience in budget management, P&L oversight, and cost control.
• Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent client relationship management and negotiation abilities.
• In‑depth knowledge of cleaning methodologies, equipment, chemicals, and health & safety regulations.
• Proficiency in relevant operational management software and MS Office Suite.
• A relevant tertiary qualification (e.g., Business Administration, Operations Management) is highly desirable.
• Ability to travel within the Western Cape region as needed.
• A strong understanding of the operational landscape in regions like Stellenbosch.

Benefits

This position offers a highly competitive executive salary package, complemented by performance-based bonuses and a comprehensive benefits scheme, including medical aid and a provident fund. Our client is committed to employee development, providing opportunities for advanced leadership training and professional growth. You will be part of a forward-thinking organization that values innovation and employee contribution. This role offers significant autonomy and the opportunity to make a substantial impact on our operations in the beautiful Stellenbosch area and beyond. Enjoy the benefits of working in a region renowned for its natural beauty and dynamic economy.