Branch Manager – Steel Distribution

About the role

A well‑established national steel distributor is seeking a Branch Manager to take full profit‑and‑loss responsibility for its main Cape Town operation. This senior leadership position oversees turnover, gross margin, expense control and the performance of a multidisciplinary team.

Key responsibilities

• Full profit and loss accountability for the Cape Town branch, including turnover, gross margin and expense control.
• Lead a multidisciplinary team of 15‑40 staff across sales, yard operations, warehousing, drivers, administration and debtors.
• Manage stock holding, ageing, shrinkage and working capital in a physical yard environment, including cycle counts and stock reconciliation.
• Maintain pricing discipline within group parameters and negotiate project‑based deals with key accounts.
• Standardise processes across satellite sites, oversee inter‑branch stock movements and consolidate reporting.
• Ensure compliance with OHS Act requirements for lifting equipment, forklifts and cutting operations.

Required profile

• Minimum 5 years of experience managing a branch, depot or trade counter in steel, pipes, fittings, hardware or industrial distribution.
• Proven P&L ownership with responsibility for profitability, not just sales turnover.
• Hands‑on knowledge of steel sections, tubes, pipes, fittings and valves.
• Experience supervising at least 15 staff across sales, warehouse and administration.
• Valid Code 08 driver’s licence; based in Cape Town or willing to relocate.

Required skills

• ERP systems – preferably Syspro.