Senior Operations Manager - Durban, South Africa

Custom Connect; Durban; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 850 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading operations firm in South Africa is looking for a Senior Operations Manager to oversee performance and drive efficiency. This role involves leading operational teams, analyzing performance metrics, and implementing strategies for better results. The ideal candidate will have 5-8 years of operations management experience, strong analytical skills, and the ability to lead cross-functionally. A competitive compensation package and opportunities for career growth within a dynamic organization await the successful candidate.

Benefits

Competitive compensation package

Career growth within a fast-growing organisation

Supportive and dynamic environment

Qualifications

• 5–8 years of proven experience in operations management with large teams.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operational performance for service and quality targets.
• Lead and mentor operational teams for accountability and improvement.
• Analyse performance metrics for gaps and optimisation opportunities.

Skills

Analytical skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business management or related field

Tools

Performance-management tools

Job description

Senior Operations Manager

Location: Durban
Employment Type: Full-Time
Department: Operations

About the Role

We are seeking a highly skilled and strategic Senior Operations Manager to lead operational performance, drive efficiency, and support business growth across our organisation. This role requires a strong leader with exceptional analytical ability, operational insight, and a passion for delivering results through people, processes, and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operational performance to ensure the achievement of service, quality, and productivity targets.
• Lead, mentor, and develop operational teams, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Analyse performance metrics to identify gaps, trends, and opportunities for optimisation.
• Implement operational strategies, policies, and best practices that support organisational objectives.
• Drive workforce planning, scheduling, and capacity management to ensure optimal resource utilisation.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with HR, Training, Quality, and other departments to support operational excellence.
• Manage client relationships, ensuring service expectations are met and exceeded.
• Lead initiatives focused on process improvement, automation, and cost efficiency.
• Prepare and present operational reports to senior leadership.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, contractual requirements, and regulatory standards.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in business management, Operations, or a related field (preferred).
• 5–8 years’ proven experience in operations management, including leadership of large teams.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder-management abilities.
• Demonstrated experience driving performance and supporting organisational growth.
• Proficiency in operational reporting and performance-management tools.

Key Competencies

• Strategic thinking and planning
• Strong leadership presence
• Process and workflow optimisation
• Data-driven decision-making
• Relationship management
• High level of resilience and adaptability

Why Join Us?

• Opportunity to lead and shape high-performing teams
• A supportive and dynamic environment
• Competitive compensation package
• Career growth within a fast-growing organisation