Group Workshop Manager - Nigel, Cape Town, South Africa

A leading company in the agricultural and logistics sector is seeking an experienced Group Workshop Manager to be based in Heidelberg. The successful candidate will be responsible for the strategic, operational, and financial management of the company fleet, including trucks, agricultural machinery, earthmoving equipment, and farming implements. This role will also oversee the complete logistics function, including route planning, fleet monitoring, supplier management, and cost optimisation across multiple sites.

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 / Matric
• Technical or Mechanical Trade Test and/or Mechanical Engineering qualification (advantageous)
• Minimum of 10 years' experience in a senior management role within workshop, fleet, or logistics operations
• Willingness to travel when required
• Willingness to work overtime and weekends when necessary
• Reside in or near Heidelberg

Skills Required

• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent leadership and management ability
• Strong planning and organisational skills
• Numerical and analytical ability
• Effective time-management skills
• Strong problem-solving ability

Key Competencies

• Strong negotiation skills
• Detail-oriented and highly organised
• Proactive and self-motivated
• Able to perform under pressure
• Professional, approachable, and customer-focused
• Honest, assertive, and reliable

Key Responsibilities Fleet Technical Management & Procurement

• Oversee maintenance, repairs, and operational readiness of the entire fleet
• Implement preventative maintenance programmes to minimise downtime
• Manage workshop operations across multiple sites
• Oversee the procurement of new vehicles and equipment

Logistics & Route Planning

• Manage all logistics operations and fleet allocation
• Coordinate route planning and vehicle movements
• Monitor real-time fleet performance to ensure efficient and cost-effective operations
• Ensure safeguarding and tracking of company assets

Supplier & Procurement Management

• Manage supplier relationships and procurement activities
• Source parts, machinery, and services cost-effectively
• Negotiate supplier contracts and monitor vendor performance

Fuel Management

• Monitor fuel consumption and stock control across all sites
• Manage fuel contracts and reporting
• Drive initiatives to improve fuel efficiency and reduce losses

Financial Management & Cost Control

• Prepare and manage operational budgets
• Analyse fleet and logistics costs
• Implement cost-saving initiatives and improve return on investment
• Manage parts stores and oversee regular stock takes

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure compliance with all legal, safety, and regulatory requirements
• Maintain accurate fleet and workshop documentation
• Promote safe working practices and conduct safety meetings

Leadership & People Management

• Lead and manage multi-site technical and logistics teams
• Drive staff development and performance management
• Foster teamwork and operational excellence across all departments