Senior Operations Strategist

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Life insurance

Retirement fund

Paid time off

Leadership development

Industry conferences

Wellness programs

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, seeks a Senior Operations Strategist to drive long-term operational strategy and maximize efficiency in a leading wine and spirits group.

In this role you will analyze processes, lead strategic projects end-to-end, conduct market research, and collaborate with senior leaders to translate goals into actionable plans. A strong background in analytics, project leadership and change management is essential.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or higher in a quantitative field such as MBA, Operations Management or Engineering.
• 7+ years in operations strategy, strategic planning or management consulting with focus on operational excellence.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills with data modelling ability.
• Proven track record in leading complex projects and influencing senior stakeholders.
• Experience in change management and organizational transformation, preferably in FMCG.

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine long-term operational strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Analyze processes to identify inefficiencies and propose innovative improvements.
• Lead strategic projects from conception to implementation with measurable outcomes.
• Conduct market and competitor analysis to inform decisions and best practices.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to translate goals into actionable plans.
• Develop business cases for new initiatives and investments; present recommendations.
• Monitor KPIs related to strategy and project success; report progress.
• Foster continuous improvement and innovation within the operations division.
• Mentor junior team members on strategic operational matters.
• Ensure strategies are sustainable and scalable for long-term growth.

Skills

Operational analysis

Strategic planning

Project management

Data interpretation

Stakeholder influence

Education

Master's degree in Business Administration/Operations Management/Engineering

Tools

None

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the wine and spirits industry, is seeking a highly analytical and forward-thinking Senior Operations Strategist to join their esteemed team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This role is paramount in driving operational efficiency and innovation across the organization. You will be responsible for developing long-term operational strategies, identifying areas for improvement, and leading critical projects that enhance productivity, reduce costs, and maintain our competitive edge. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in operational analysis, strategic planning, and project management within a complex operational environment. This is a significant opportunity for a strategic thinker to shape the operational future of a renowned company in a picturesque region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and refine long-term operational strategies that align with the company's overall business objectives.
• Analyze current operational processes, identify inefficiencies, and propose innovative solutions for improvement.
• Lead and manage strategic projects from conception through implementation, ensuring successful outcomes.
• Conduct market research and competitor analysis to inform strategic decision-making and identify best practices.
• Collaborate with senior leadership and department heads to translate strategic goals into actionable operational plans.
• Develop business cases for new operational initiatives and investments, presenting findings and recommendations.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to operational strategy and project success, reporting on progress.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the operations division.
• Mentor junior team members and provide guidance on strategic operational matters.
• Ensure that operational strategies are sustainable and scalable, supporting long-term growth.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Engineering, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in operations strategy, strategic planning, or management consulting, with a focus on operational excellence.
• Proven track record of developing and implementing successful operational strategies and leading complex projects.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills, with the ability to model complex scenarios and interpret data.
• Excellent understanding of various operational methodologies and technologies.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence senior stakeholders.
• Demonstrated experience in change management and driving organizational transformation.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a high-performing team.
• Strategic thinking and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Experience in the wine and spirits or FMCG industry is advantageous.

Benefits

This position offers a highly competitive executive salary with a performance-related bonus structure. Our client provides comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and a generous retirement fund. Employees benefit from ample paid time off and a supportive work culture that values professional growth and innovation. Opportunities for leadership development and attending industry conferences are provided. You will be based in the beautiful Stellenbosch region, working within a company that prides itself on its heritage and commitment to quality. We offer employee wellness programs and opportunities for team-building events.