Midrand: OPERATIONS WASTE PICKER MANAGER – Midrand, Jhb

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Operations Waste Picker Manager to oversee our national Waste Picker Business Unit. The successful candidate will manage partnerships, ensure financial and regulatory compliance under the EPR framework, and lead initiatives that promote the integration and sustainability of waste pickers within the recycling value chain.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the Waste Picker Business Unit , including strategic planning, target setting, and performance delivery.
• Oversee partner collaborations related to waste picker payments, contracts, and compliance.
• Ensure budget management and financial accountability for the business unit (formulation, monitoring, and adherence).
• Support strategy development and provide technical guidance to partners and buy-back centres on all plastic waste materials.
• Conduct site and area visits across South Africa to ensure waste pickers are properly registered and remunerated.
• Manage and sign contracts for waste picker payments with existing and new partners.
• Lead and coordinate monthly administrative and financial processes related to waste picker payments and incentives.
• Prepare and submit monthly progress and performance reports , highlighting key developments in waste picker integration.
• Ensure EPR regulatory compliance , aligning all operations with governance frameworks and funding requirements.
• Maintain strong relationships and communication with the PRO alliance regarding waste picker registration and compliance.
• Provide technical assistance to buy-back centres and partner organisations to optimise collection and recycling processes.
• Approve monthly reclaimer incentive fees in line with policy and budget.
• Lead and manage multiple concurrent projects , ensuring deliverables are achieved on time and within scope.

Requirements

• BCom or equivalent degree in Business, R&D, Environmental Management, Engineering, or related field.
• 10 years experience in a technical specialist and managerial role within the waste management, recycling, or EPR environment.
• Proven ability to manage multiple business units and budgets effectively.
• Strong financial management and reporting skills.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Office , particularly Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.

Qualifications

• BCom or equivalent degree in Business, R&D, Environmental Management, Engineering, or related field.