Operations Manager – Specialty Chemicals (Johannesburg)

About the role

We are seeking an experienced, high‑performing Operations Manager to oversee day‑to‑day activities, multi‑department productivity, and profitability of our operational branch in Johannesburg. The role demands a sharp business mind capable of driving operational excellence across Finance, HR, IT, Warehouse Management, and Health & Safety while maintaining top‑tier customer service and client SLA adherence.

Key responsibilities

• Finance & Business Management – manage the operational budget, enforce cost control, sign off monthly billing/invoicing, assess project/SLA profitability and control operational expenditure.
• Operational & Technical Supervision – verify and update SOPs for warehouse, project and client management, resolve complex technical queries and drive continuous improvement of technical service offerings.
• Client & Service Delivery Management – oversee client satisfaction, approve costings/quotes, ensure SLA compliance, investigate complaints and support business development to expand market footprint.
• HR & Team Leadership – conduct performance appraisals, manage access control, overtime and absenteeism, oversee training and career plans, and handle IR processes including disciplinary enquiries.
• Risk & Compliance Management – maintain legal compliance, conduct daily walk‑abouts, sign off stock‑take/cycle‑count reports, manage supplier SLAs and ensure ISO, SHERQ and DEL audit compliance.
• Health & Safety (SHE) – chair safety meetings, ensure site emergency preparedness and manage responses to spills or injuries.

Required profile

• Education – Grade 12/Matric plus a relevant degree in Business, Operations Management or a related field.
• Experience – proven experience as an Operations Manager or similar leadership role; minimum three years in the chemical industry is highly advantageous.
• Systems & Software – proficiency in MS Office Suite; working knowledge of Syspro and Pastel Accounting software is advantageous.
• Financial & Inventory Acumen – solid experience in budgeting, forecasting, project costing and inventory/warehouse management.
• Licensing – valid, unendorsed driver’s licence (Code 08).
• Commute Capability – must be comfortable commuting daily to Modderfontein/Longmeadow Park and navigating typical Johannesburg traffic.

Required skills

• MS Office Suite
• Syspro
• Pastel Accounting