Senior Project Manager - Operations & Supply Chain

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Project Manager to lead strategic initiatives within Operations and Supply Chain in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. The role focuses on optimizing logistics, improving efficiency, and delivering end-to-end projects.

You will manage cross-functional teams, develop detailed project plans, control budgets, and mitigate risks while aligning with business goals. A strong background in operations, logistics, and procurement is essential, with PMP or similar certification

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field; a Master's is a plus.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in project management, with focus on operations, logistics, or supply chain projects.
• Proven experience managing complex, end-to-end operational improvement initiatives.
• Strong understanding of supply chain principles, logistics, inventory management, and procurement.
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, execution, and completion of strategic projects within Operations and Supply Chain.
• Develop comprehensive project plans with scope, timelines, budgets, resources, and risk mitigation.
• Manage cross-functional teams and foster high performance across lifecycles.
• Oversee optimization of logistics, inventory management, procurement processes, and distribution networks.
• Identify and implement process improvements to reduce costs and improve service levels.
• Manage stakeholder expectations and communicate progress, risks, and outcomes.
• Ensure adherence to project management best practices, quality standards, and safety regulations.
• Conduct risk assessments and develop contingency plans for challenges.
• Monitor project performance against key metrics and report to senior management.
• Facilitate change management for new strategies and systems.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Negotiation

Problem-solving

Stakeholder management

Lean Six Sigma

PMP certification

Education

Bachelor's degree in Operations Management / Supply Chain / Business Administration

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

MS Project

Primavera

ERP/SCM systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading entity in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, ZA, is seeking a highly accomplished Senior Project Manager to lead transformative initiatives within their Operations and Supply Chain divisions. This role is critical for optimizing logistics, enhancing efficiency, and implementing strategic improvements that drive business success. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of managing complex projects in operational environments, a deep understanding of supply chain dynamics, and exceptional leadership capabilities. You will be responsible for the entire project lifecycle, from concept and planning through execution and successful closure, ensuring alignment with overarching business goals.

This position is based on-site in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, ZA, offering a hands-on opportunity to make a significant impact on operational performance and strategic development within the region. You will be at the forefront of innovation and efficiency improvements.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and successful completion of strategic projects within Operations and Supply Chain.
• Develop comprehensive project plans, including scope definition, timelines, budgets, resource allocation, and risk mitigation.
• Manage cross-functional teams, fostering collaboration and ensuring high performance throughout project lifecycles.
• Oversee the optimization of logistics, inventory management, procurement processes, and distribution networks.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service levels.
• Manage stakeholder expectations and ensure clear, consistent communication regarding project progress, risks, and outcomes.
• Ensure adherence to project management best practices, quality standards, and safety regulations.
• Conduct thorough risk assessments and develop effective contingency plans to address potential challenges.
• Monitor project performance against key metrics and provide regular reports to senior management.
• Facilitate change management processes to ensure successful adoption of new operational strategies and systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in project management, with a significant focus on operations, logistics, or supply chain projects.
• Proven experience managing complex, end-to-end operational improvement initiatives.
• Strong understanding of supply chain principles, logistics, inventory management, and procurement.
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera) and ERP/SCM systems.
• Experience with Lean, Six Sigma, or other operational excellence methodologies is highly desirable.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize effectively.
• Experience working within the Mpumalanga, ZA industrial landscape is advantageous.
• PMP or equivalent certification is preferred.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid, retirement fund, and other benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training in supply chain and project management.
• Direct involvement in high-impact operational projects.
• Collaborative and results-oriented work environment.
• Generous annual leave and other statutory entitlements.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates.
• Company-provided resources and tools for project success.