Strategic COO for Rapid-Scale Tech Startup

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Equity stake

Performance bonuses

Medical & retirement benefits

Job summary

Placements24, Stellenbosch-based tech startup, seeks a seasoned Chief Operating Officer to shape operational strategy, scale processes, and drive high-growth execution across product, customer support, IT, HR and admin.

Impactful leader needed to build scalable operating frameworks, foster a strong culture, manage budgets and risks, and partner with the CEO on strategic planning in a fast-paced tech environment.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or related field.
• 10+ years in operations management with ≥5 years in senior executive role in a tech/high-growth startup.
• Proven track record of scaling operations for a rapidly growing company.
• Strong understanding of technology product development lifecycles and SaaS operations.
• Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience managing budgets and P&L responsibility.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Stellenbosch, Western Cape area.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the company's operational strategy to support rapid scaling and growth objectives.
• Oversee and manage day-to-day operations, including product delivery, customer success, IT, HR, and administration.
• Implement and refine operational processes and systems to enhance efficiency, productivity, and quality.
• Build and lead a high-performing operational team, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and innovation.
• Manage budgets, allocate resources effectively, and ensure financial discipline within operational departments.
• Identify and mitigate operational risks, ensuring business continuity and resilience.
• Collaborate closely with the CEO and other executive team members on strategic planning and execution.
• Ensure the company's operations align with its strategic vision and mission.
• Drive initiatives to enhance customer satisfaction and retention through operational excellence.

Skills

Operations management

Leadership

SaaS operations

Budget & P&L

Strategic planning

Agile/Lean

Stakeholder management

Education

Master's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or related field

Job description

Placements24, Stellenbosch-based tech startup, seeks a seasoned Chief Operating Officer to shape operational strategy, scale processes, and drive high-growth execution across product, customer support, IT, HR and admin.

Impactful leader needed to build scalable operating frameworks, foster a strong culture, manage budgets and risks, and partner with the CEO on strategic planning in a fast-paced tech environment.