Chief Operations Officer, Lichtenburg

Introduction: 
Our client, based in Lichtenburg, North West, is a leading, fully integrated poultry producer specialising in high-quality, farm-fresh chicken products. They are seeking an experienced and dynamic Senior Operations Officer to lead and manage day-to-day operations across Processing, Feeds, Retail, and Fleet divisions. This role requires a strategic thinker with strong operational expertise, proven leadership capabilities, and a commitment to driving organisational success while upholding 
ethical business practices. 
 
Job Purpose: 
To ensure the smooth, efficient, and compliant functioning of all operational aspects of the business while supporting the CEO in executing the company’s vision, mission, and long-term strategies.

REQUIREMENTS 
Minimum education (essential): 

• National Senior Certificate / Grade 12 

Minimum education (advantageous): 

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (Honours degree or MBA is a distinct advantage)  

Minimum applicable experience (years): 

• At least 7 years in a senior managerial role 

 
Required nature of experience: 

• Proven leadership at a senior management level 
• Operational management in a complex, multi-division environment 
• Strategic planning, budgeting, and forecasting 
• Financial management, including profit & loss, balance sheets, and cash flow
• Stakeholder and partner relationship management
• Human resource and personnel management principles
• Compliance with corporate governance and industry regulations 

Skills and Knowledge (essential):

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills 
• Strong negotiation and reasoning skills 
• Advanced decision-making and problem-solving abilities 
• Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities
• High level of integrity, accountability, and ethical leadership
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Other: 

• Own transport and valid driver’s licence

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS  
Operational Leadership & Management 

• Lead and oversee daily operations in Processing, Feeds, Retail, and Fleet. 
• Monitor managerial performance, implement improvements, and take corrective actions where necessary. 
• Ensure operational efficiency and productivity across divisions. 
• Align operations with the company’s vision, mission, and goals. 

Strategic Planning & Execution  

• Collaborate with the CEO and executive committee on long- and short-term strategies. 
• Drive operational strategies in alignment with corporate objectives. 
• Forecast future operational requirements and develop plans accordingly. 
• Provide accurate and timely reports to support strategic decision-making. 

Compliance & Governance 

• Ensure adherence to legal, regulatory, and corporate governance requirements. 
• Oversee industry compliance and risk management processes. 
• Maintain up-to-date records, filings, and regulatory documentation.

Financial Management

• Manage budgets, forecasts, and cost controls to ensure profitability. 
• Analyse financial data to improve operational performance. 
• Ensure sound cash flow management and resource allocation.

Stakeholder Engagement & Culture Development  

• Build and maintain trusted relationships with partners, stakeholders, and employees. 
• Foster a corporate culture of ethical practices, customer focus, and service 
• excellence. 
• Encourage teamwork, innovation, and professional growth across the organisation.