National Operations Manager

Role Overview:

The primary purpose of the National Operations Manager role is to represent the business by making and implementing sound decisions across planning, directing, and coordinating assigned operations. The role focuses on driving new business growth, achieving sales targets through personal contribution, and leading the Sales team to deliver results. This position reports directly to the General Manager.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee sales, operations, finance, and governance to ensure strategic goals and profitability are achieved.
• Manage and maintain company assets.
• Lead all personnel and HR-related functions.
• Oversee overall administration of the division.
• Provide effective leadership to build a committed, high-performing team aligned with the Groups vision, mission, and values.
• Ensure a productive, cost-effective, safe, and compliant workplace.

Key Performance Areas:

To succeed in this role, the incumbent must be able to perform each key duty effectively. The list below summarizes the critical responsibilities but may be adjusted as business needs evolve.

• 1. Business Reporting

  • Prepare and present clear, timely reports and proposals for the General Manager.

  • Research and resolve business concerns promptly and effectively.

  • Keep the General Manager informed on divisional matters and developments.

  • Establish systems and procedures to ensure accurate reporting on divisional status, needs, and activities.

  2. Sales

  • Lead all field sales activities across regions and market divisions.

  • Conduct field visits, customer engagements, and attend conventions/exhibitions to promote products.

  • Drive customer service excellence and maintain strong relationships with customers and OEMs.

  • Grow branches/departments in line with company objectives.

  • Manage sales team performance to ensure market coverage, growth, and profitability targets are met.

  3. Financial Management

  • Enforce internal financial controls in line with group standards.

  • Deliver accurate monthly financial reports and forecasts.

  • Manage branch assets effectively.

  • Prepare and oversee budgets to achieve profitability and growth targets.

  • Perform in-depth financial analysis to identify and address inefficiencies or inaccuracies.

  • Monitor and manage key departmental functions:

    • New & Used Sales : Meet order, invoicing, and gross profit targets; ensure stock turnover and regional coverage.

    • Rental : Manage rental financing, fleet utilization, maintenance, and profitability within budget.

    • Parts : Support the department to minimize obsolescence.

    • Service & Maintenance : Ensure contract profitability, proper scheduling, and compliance with warranty regulations.

    • Debtors : Support collections to minimize provisions and reduce debtor days.

    • Creditors : Ensure timely payments, maintain supplier compliance with BBBEE, and avoid overdue accounts.

  • Ensure all overheads, administrative procedures, and OHSACT compliance are met.

  4. Customer Service

  • Ensure consistent, high-quality customer interactions.

  • Support business growth by developing partnerships and tailored solutions.

  • Represent the company professionally to clients and the wider market.

  5. Operations

  • Oversee efficient branch operations to maximize sustainable profitability.

  • Develop and update short- and long-term strategic plans.

  • Plan for operational needs including manpower, technology, equipment, and facilities.

  • Align departmental goals, policies, and procedures with company vision and objectives.

  • Identify and resolve operational issues promptly.

  6. Human Resources

  • Ensure staff management aligns with company policies and values.

  • Oversee:

    • Bi-annual performance appraisals.

    • Timely payroll submissions.

    • Regular branch and departmental meetings.

    • Effective leave and absenteeism management.

    • Internal communication and inter-departmental collaboration.

  • Ensure compliance with HR policies regarding recruitment, terminations, compensation, training, discipline, grievances, and safety.

  7. Growth & Innovation

  • Drive branch growth in line with company requirements.

  • Develop and implement operational innovations and TLLP initiatives.

Education, Training, and Experience Requirements

• Relevant tertiary qualification (3-year degree/diploma, NQF Level 6) in business management or equivalent.
• 35 years experience in a similar role, with at least 35 years in a management capacity.
• Automotive, Engineering or Manufacturing experience is an added advantage.
• Experience in working with international/overseas OEMs.
• Valid EB drivers license (Code 8).