Senior Operations Manager - Strategic Planning

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Annual bonus

Medical aid and provident fund

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct in Midrand, Gauteng, seeks a Senior Operations Manager to lead strategic planning and execution across our expanding management division. The role focuses on efficiency, resource optimization, and continuous improvement in a hybrid setting.

You will drive budgets, oversee performance, and mentor a diverse team, delivering measurable results aligned with business goals.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years in operations management with focus on strategic planning and execution.
• Proven track record leading large-scale operational projects and teams.
• Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred.
• Experience in Gauteng regional business landscape is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement operational strategies and business plans aligned to long-term goals.
• Oversee daily operations ensuring efficiency, quality, and compliance with standards.
• Manage budgets, forecasts and financial performance for cost optimization and revenue.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing operations team.
• Establish and monitor KPIs to drive continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing and finance to align operations.
• Identify risks and implement contingency plans for business continuity.
• Conduct performance reviews and provide constructive feedback.
• Champion adoption of new technologies and best practices.

Skills

Strategic planning

Operational leadership

Stakeholder management

Data-driven decision making

Financial acumen

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree preferred

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, WhatJobs Direct, is seeking a highly experienced and dynamic Senior Operations Manager to oversee strategic planning and operational execution within their rapidly expanding management division. This pivotal role requires a forward-thinking leader adept at driving efficiency, optimizing resource allocation, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across diverse operational functions. The successful candidate will be instrumental in shaping the future direction of our client's operations, ensuring alignment with overarching business objectives and market demands. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in a challenging yet rewarding environment located in the vibrant business hub of Midrand, Gauteng . We are looking for an individual who possesses a strong blend of strategic vision and hands‑on operational expertise, capable of navigating complex business landscapes and delivering tangible results.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive operational strategies and business plans that support long-term organizational goals.
• Oversee daily operations, ensuring efficiency, quality, and compliance with industry standards and regulations.
• Manage departmental budgets, forecasts, and financial performance, identifying areas for cost optimization and revenue enhancement.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high‑performing team of operational staff, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track operational effectiveness and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including sales, marketing, and finance, to ensure seamless integration of operational activities.
• Identify and mitigate operational risks, implementing robust contingency plans to ensure business continuity.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback to team members.
• Champion the adoption of new technologies and best practices to enhance operational capabilities.

Requirements

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in operations management, with a strong focus on strategic planning and execution.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large‑scale operational projects and teams.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and motivate stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities, with a data‑driven approach to decision‑making.
• Proficiency in financial management, budgeting, and P&L responsibility.
• Experience with ERP systems and other operational management software.
• A Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field is required; a Master's degree is a plus.
• Demonstrated experience in the Gauteng region's business landscape is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including a generous annual bonus structure and comprehensive medical aid and provident fund benefits.
• Employees benefit from opportunities for professional development, continuous learning, and career advancement within a growing organization.
• This hybrid role allows for a balance between in‑office collaboration and remote flexibility.
• Additional perks include access to state‑of‑the‑art facilities, employee wellness programs, and a supportive work environment in Midrand, Gauteng .