Western Cape: Branch Manager posted by Network Finance

About the Role

Network Finance is seeking an experienced Branch Manager for our Industrial Laundry Operations in Cape Town. As a key member of our operations team, you will be responsible for driving profitability, operational efficiency, compliance, and customer satisfaction while leading a large, multi-functional team. You will oversee all production processes across the branch, manage financial resources to ensure maximum return on investment, and maintain effective administration and reporting systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and optimise financial resources to ensure maximum return on investment.
• Control labour, raw materials, utilities, chemicals, and equipment costs.
• Compile and manage operational budgets. Monitor fixed, variable, and Capex expenditure.
• Calculate and review pricing structures to maintain competitive and profitable margins.
• Oversee all production processes across the branch.
• Set and monitor hourly/daily production targets per area and machine.
• Investigate deviations and implement root cause corrective actions.
• Ensure that production schedules are compiled, communicated, and optimised for efficiency.
• Monitor plant efficiency (kg processed per labour hour).
• Drive continuous improvement in productivity and quality standards.
• Ensure that trucks are loaded optimally and routes are efficiently planned.
• Implement systems to control inbound and outbound logistics.
• Ensure secure, accurate, and timeous deliveries.
• Maintain effective administration and the tracking of all distribution activities.
• Maintain and strengthen client relationships to ensure retention and contract renewals.
• Oversee complaint resolution and ensure timely client feedback.
• Monitor customer satisfaction surveys and implement corrective actions.
• Support sales strategy and manage new business, renewals, and installations.
• Lead, coach, and manage branch staff performance and conduct.
• Address grievances and disciplinary matters in line with the policy.
• Plan labour effectively to reduce overtime and casual labour costs.
• Identify training gaps and align with the workplace skills plan and budget.
• Maintain accurate time, attendance, and payroll administration (Payspace).
• Analyse operational, financial, distribution, sales, and HR reports.
• Take corrective actions where deviations occur.
• Compile monthly management, Exco, and Board reports.

Requirements

• Undergraduate qualification in Engineering, Finance, Business, or Production.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in factory/production operations.
• At least 3 years in a middle management role.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in SHEQ, with strong knowledge of health and safety regulations.
• Working knowledge of factory equipment, machinery, and production processes.

Qualifications

• Formal education/certifications not specified.

Salary & Benefits

• Salary information not specified.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Plant efficiency (kg processed per labour hour).
• Customer retention and complaint resolution rate.
• Cost per kilogram processed (labour, utilities, and chemicals vs budget).
• Regional financial and operational performance targets.

Minimum Requirements

• Undergraduate qualification in Engineering, Finance, Business, or Production.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in factory/production operations.
• At least 3 years in a middle management role.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in SHEQ, with strong knowledge of health and safety regulations.
• Working knowledge of factory equipment, machinery, and production processes.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent financial acumen.
• Strong operational and analytical ability.
• Effective communicator (written and verbal).
• Decisive under pressure.

Working Environment

• Site-based role within an industrial laundry facility.
• Exposure to heat, noise, moisture, chemicals, and moving machinery.
• Regular presence required on the production floor (PPE mandatory).
• Flexible hours, including early starts, extended hours, and occasional weekends.
• High-pressure operational environment requiring strong problem-solving ability.