South Africa: General Manager – Operations posted by Ad Talent Africa

Who We Are

We are a leading FMCG business with a strong footprint across Zambia and Africa, specialising in the manufacturing and distribution of high-quality consumer goods. Our commitment to operational excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth has positioned us as a trusted brand in the industry.

Who We Are Looking For

We are seeking an experienced General Manager – Operations to lead operations for a well-established dairy and beverage business. The ideal candidate must have extensive experience in the dairy industry, with a deep understanding of production processes, supply chain management, and quality control specific to dairy operations. This role requires a results-driven leader with a proven track record in FMCG, particularly in dairy or beverages, who can drive operational efficiency and business growth in a competitive market.

What Will You Do

• Develop and execute operational strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Oversee dairy production, quality control, finance, and plant operations to ensure efficiency and productivity.
• Implement best practices in dairy processing, waste reduction, and cost optimization.
• Ensure compliance with dairy industry regulations, food safety standards, and quality assurance protocols.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to department heads, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Analyze financial reports and operational data to optimize cost structures and revenue generation.
• Collaborate with senior leadership on strategic planning and business growth initiatives.
• Drive efficiency in dairy plant operations, ensuring high-quality production standards.
• Establish and enforce best practices for human capital development, including recruitment, training, and performance management.
• Work closely with executive leadership and board committees to ensure alignment with long-term company goals.

What You Need

• Education: A bachelors degree in Business Administration, Operations, or a related field (preferred).
• Experience:
  • 15+ years of experience in the dairy industry, specifically in production, operations, business development, and finance within FMCG.
  • A minimum of 3 years of international or Africa-based work experience.
• Key Competencies:
  • Strong dairy industry expertise, including production processes, food safety, and quality control.
  • Business acumen with expertise in sales, operations, and production.
  • Proven leadership ability with confidence and executive presence.
  • Analytical mindset with problem-solving and decision-making skills.
  • Cultural sensitivity and ability to manage diverse teams.
  • Adaptability to change and ability to navigate uncertainty.
  • Strong negotiation and strategic planning skills.
  • Results-driven with attention to detail.
  • Ability to work independently and drive outcomes with minimal supervision.