Group Chief Operating Officer (COO)

About the role

We are looking for a senior executive to lead and optimise day‑to‑day operations across our diversified group of industrial manufacturing and engineering service companies. The Group COO will be accountable for the operational performance of businesses ranging from flow‑control equipment to non‑destructive testing, wear lining, specialist welding and asset integrity services.

Key responsibilities

• Partner with the Executive Chairman and Group leadership to develop and execute strategies that support the Group’s vision of becoming Africa’s premier industrial manufacturing and engineering service provider.
• Identify and implement operational efficiencies, standard operating procedures and performance metrics across all member companies.
• Champion quality, safety and compliance, ensuring ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015 and ISO 45001:2018 certifications are maintained.
• Lead and coach the leadership teams of each operating company, fostering a culture of bravery, professionalism and collaboration.
• Oversee budgeting, financial planning and cost management in partnership with finance stakeholders.
• Maintain strong relationships with clients in mining, power generation, oil & gas, petrochemical, waterworks and maritime sectors, and report operational progress to senior Group leadership.
• Support international business development and geographic expansion across African markets.

Required profile

• Strategic operator with proven ability to drive operational excellence in a multi‑entity industrial environment.
• Exceptional leadership, problem‑solving and decision‑making capabilities.
• Strong stakeholder and client management experience within industrial sectors.
• Experience in budgeting, financial planning and cost control.

Required skills

• Knowledge of ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015 and ISO 45001:2018 standards.
• Understanding of risk‑based inspection, asset integrity and regulatory compliance for high‑hazard industrial equipment.