General Manager Operations (KZN)

Our client, a national Transport & Logistics company, is seeking a seasoned General Manager Operations to oversee its branches across KZN. This is a senior role that requires someone passionate about operational excellence, service delivery, compliance, and team leadership across the road freight supply chain.

This is a critical leadership role in a high-performance logistics network where collaboration, improvement, and delivery are essential.

Main Functions:

1) Regional Leadership & Oversight
• Provide direct leadership to the Branch Managers
• Act as the strategic link between regional operations and national leadership.
• Foster cross-branch collaboration and alignment with organisational goals.

2) Operational Excellence & Service Delivery
• Standardise and optimise operational processes across all branches.
• Drive improvements in productivity, service levels, and operational cost control.
• Monitor daily branch performance and intervene where required to uphold delivery standards.

3) Compliance & Risk Management
• Enforce compliance with legal, safety, and operational regulations.
• Manage escalated risks, incidents, and complex disciplinary issues.
• Ensure all branches are audit-ready and follow internal SOPs consistently.

4) Financial & KPI Management
• Analyse and oversee branch-level P&Ls and regional budgets.
• Monitor performance indicators and initiate recovery or improvement plans where gaps are identified.
• Champion cost-saving initiatives while enhancing service outcomes.

5) People Development & Culture
• Mentor and develop Branch Managers and critical frontline leaders.
• Support HR in performance management, training, and succession planning.
• Foster a positive, high-performance work culture across branches.

6) Customer Engagement & Escalation Management
• Build and maintain key customer relationships at a regional level.
• Manage escalated service challenges and ensure sustainable customer solutions.

7) Strategic Reporting & Insight
• Consolidate and present monthly performance reports and operational insights to Executive Management.
• Drive data-informed decision-making and continuous improvement across the region.

Required Experience:
• Strong multi-site operations management experience in a road freight/logistics environment.
• Proven leadership track record with the ability to influence and manage diverse teams.
• Deep understanding of transport compliance, linehaul operations, and branch service delivery.
• Strategic thinker with strong operational execution ability.
• Passionate about teamwork, customer service, and driving accountability.
• Highly organised and adaptable in a dynamic, fast-moving environment.
• Clear communicator, approachable leader, and results-driven professional.

Minimum Requirements:
• Relevant degree or diploma in Logistics, Transport, Business or Operations Management.
• 8–10 years’ operational experience in logistics, with at least 5 years in a regional/senior role.
• Strong commercial understanding, including financial management and P&L oversight.
• In-depth knowledge of distribution models, regulatory compliance, and operational metrics.
• Proficiency in logistics systems, data reporting tools, and Microsoft Office.
• Valid driver’s license and own transport essential.
• Availability for travel and after-hours operational support.

Salary: R90 000 - R110 000 CTC per month (negotiable)

To apply, send your CV with the heading GENERAL MANAGER OPS.