Port Elizabeth: Section Manager

The Section Manager Job Summary The Section Manager at our fruit cold storage facility is a pivotal leadership role responsible for overseeing the end-to-end operations of the facility, ensuring the preservation of fruit quality, operational efficiency, and compliance with industry standards. This position requires a strategic thinker with strong leadership skills to manage a diverse team, optimize processes, and maintain a seamless cold chain for perishable goods. The Section Manager will drive operational excellence, foster a culture of safety and accountability, and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to meet organizational objectives and deliver exceptional customer satisfaction. Key Responsibilities Operational Management Oversee the entire workflow of fruit handling, including receiving, inspection, sorting, grading, packing, storage, and dispatch, ensuring all processes align with cold chain requirements to maintain fruit freshness and quality. Monitor and maintain optimal storage conditions (temperature, humidity, and ethylene levels) for various fruit types (e.g., citrus, apples) to prevent spoilage and extend shelf life. Develop and enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all operational activities, ensuring consistency and efficiency across shifts. Coordinate with logistics teams to ensure timely loading and unloading of transport vehicles, minimizing delays and maintaining cold chain integrity. Team Leadership and Development Lead, train, and supervise a team of employees, including warehouse supervisors, refrigeration technicians, inventory clerks, forklift operators, and general workers. Conduct regular performance evaluations, provide constructive feedback, and implement development plans to enhance team skills and productivity. Foster a positive and inclusive work environment, promoting teamwork, safety awareness, and adherence to company values. Schedule staff shifts and manage labour/staff allocation to ensure adequate coverage during peak seasons and high-demand periods. Inventory and Resource Management Implement robust inventory control systems to track fruit stock levels, monitor shelf life, and reduce waste due to overstocking or spoilage. Utilize inventory management software (e.g., SAP, WMS, or similar) to maintain accurate records and generate real-time reports on stock movements. Manage operational budgets, including labour, equipment maintenance, and utilities, to optimize costs while maintaining high operational standards. Oversee the procurement of supplies, such as packaging materials and cleaning agents, ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality. Compliance and Safety Ensure compliance with local and international food safety regulations, including HACCP, FDA, USDA, or equivalent standards, conducting regular audits to maintain certifications. Implement and enforce occupational health and safety (OHS) protocols, ensuring all staff are trained in safe handling practices, equipment operation, and emergency procedures. Monitor environmental compliance, including proper disposal of waste and management of refrigerants in accordance with EPA or local regulations. Conduct regular safety drills and maintain up-to-date records for regulatory inspections. Equipment and Facility Maintenance Oversee the maintenance, repair, and calibration of refrigeration systems, cooling units, and other critical equipment to ensure continuous operation and prevent downtime. Coordinate with external vendors for major repairs and ensure all equipment meets industry standards for energy efficiency and performance. Maintain a clean and organized facility, implementing sanitation schedules to meet food safety requirements and prevent contamination. Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement Collaborate with quality control teams to conduct regular inspections of fruit quality, ensuring compliance with customer specifications and industry standards. Implement lean management principles and continuous improvement initiatives to streamline processes, reduce waste, and enhance operational efficiency. Analyse key performance indicators (KPIs) such as order fulfilment rates, inventory accuracy, and downtime to identify areas for improvement and develop action plans. Stakeholder Collaboration Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, customers, and third-party logistics providers to ensure smooth coordination and timely delivery. Address customer inquiries and complaints promptly, working to resolve issues related to product quality or delivery schedules. Partner with the sales and marketing teams to forecast demand and plan inventory levels for seasonal fluctuations. Reporting and Data Analysis Prepare detailed operational reports, including production metrics, labour efficiency, and budget performance, for senior management review. Utilize data analytics to monitor trends, predict operational challenges, and propose solutions to enhance performance. Present findings and recommendations during management meetings to align operations with strategic business goals.