Polokwane: General Manger (Chief Operating Officer) posted by K-SL Group Pty Ltd

KSL Group is seeking to appoint a highly experienced and strategic General Manager to lead the overall operational and strategic direction of its student accommodation portfolio . This role is equivalent in scope to that of a Chief Operating Officer (COO) and is responsible for overseeing student accommodation operations while providing executive oversight to: Internal Cleaning and Maintenance teams (operating within a separate company) Security services (separate entity) Facilities Management (separate entity) The successful candidate will ensure operational excellence, financial sustainability, regulatory compliance, risk management, stakeholder satisfaction, and strategic growth within the student accommodation sector. Strategic & Operational Leadership Develop and implement a long-term strategic plan for the growth and sustainability of KSLs student accommodation portfolio. Drive operational excellence across accommodation sites and associated service entities. Analyse market trends in student accommodation to identify expansion and development opportunities. Ensure strong governance, compliance, and risk management across all operational structures. Oversee budgeting, financial planning, cost control, and profitability across all divisions. Coordinate and align the performance of cleaning, maintenance, facilities management, and security entities to ensure seamless service delivery. Student & Stakeholder Management Ensure high levels of student satisfaction, safety, and service delivery across all residences. Build and maintain relationships with universities, regulatory bodies, and external stakeholders. Represent KSL at industry forums, property and student accommodation events. Implement service excellence standards and continuous improvement initiatives. Team Leadership & Employee Relations Provide executive oversight to management teams across operational entities. Demonstrate strong Employee Relations capability and sound basic HR knowledge to effectively manage workforce matters and team dynamics. Foster a performance-driven, accountable, and service-oriented culture. Drive talent development, succession planning, and leadership capability across the group. Conduct performance reviews and ensure alignment of individual objectives with company strategy. Minimum Requirements Extensive senior management experience within student accommodation, property management, facilities management, or related environments. Proven executive-level experience overseeing multi-entity or multi-division operations. Strong financial acumen and operational management expertise. In-depth understanding of compliance, governance, health & safety, and risk management. Demonstrated experience in Employee Relations and working knowledge of labour legislation. Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and stakeholder management skills. Relevant tertiary qualification in Business, Property, Operations Management or related field (MBA advantageous). Closing Statement This is a senior executive opportunity suited to a results-driven leader with significant experience in complex operational environments and a strong understanding of the student accommodation and property management sector.