South Africa: Cold Storage Operations Manager posted by Greys Recruitment

Job Title: Cold Storage Operations Manager (Citrus Export)

Job Purpose

An established operation within the citrus export industry is seeking a highly experienced Cold Storage Operations Manager to take full responsibility for all cold storage activities related to citrus fruit.
The successful candidate will oversee cold chain management, ensure strict compliance with local and international export protocols, maintain product quality standards, and drive operational efficiency across the facility. This is a senior-level role requiring a hands-on leader who can add value from day one.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all citrus cold storage operations
• Ensure strict compliance with export market protocols and cold treatment requirements
• Maintain full cold chain integrity and product quality standards
• Manage stock control processes and warehouse efficiency
• Lead, supervise, and develop operational teams
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and regulatory standards
• Prepare for and manage audits by regulatory authorities
• Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure smooth export processes
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the facility
• Manage peak-season pressures while maintaining operational excellence

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or related field
• 8–10 years’ experience in cold storage and/or fruit export operations
• Strong knowledge of citrus handling and export market protocols
• In-depth understanding of cold treatment requirements for export markets
• Experience dealing with regulatory authorities and audits
• Proven leadership and senior management experience

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Proven experience in a senior management role within a cold storage, warehousing, or logistics environment
• Strong understanding of cold chain operations and stock control
• Demonstrated ability to manage teams and drive productivity
• Solid knowledge of compliance and safety standards
• Strong communication and leadership skills
• Ability to work in a temperature-controlled environment
• Highly responsible and capable of taking full ownership of the section

Key Competencies

• Regulatory and compliance expertise
• Leadership and team management
• Strong attention to detail
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making ability
• Effective communication and negotiation skills
• Ability to perform under pressure during peak export seasons

Note to Applicants:
Only suitably qualified and highly experienced candidates meeting the above criteria will be considered for this senior-level opportunity.