General Manager: Operations - Faith Group of Companies

JOB PURPOSE

The General Manager – Operations is responsible for the strategic leadership, supervision, and efficient management of all cold store branch operations across the Faith Group of Companies. The role requires a highly experienced, disciplined, and results-driven professional to ensure optimal performance, profitability, compliance, and operational excellence across all locations.

The ideal candidate will bring strong financial acumen, operational expertise, and leadership maturity to drive growth, enforce controls, and uphold the highest standards of accountability.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Operational Leadership & Oversight

• Direct and oversee the day-to-day operations of all cold store branches.
• Ensure strict adherence to company policies, operational procedures, and sales protocols.
• Drive efficiency in stock handling, storage, and distribution to minimize losses and wastage.
• Monitor branch performance and implement corrective actions where necessary.

2. Financial Management & Controls

• Enforce strong financial discipline across all branches.
• Supervise revenue generation, cash handling, and banking processes.
• Implement and maintain robust internal control systems to prevent fraud, theft, and stock discrepancies.
• Review financial reports, reconcile variances, and ensure accountability at all levels.
• Leverage accounting/audit background to strengthen compliance and transparency.

3. Sales & Business Growth

• Develop and implement strategies to increase sales volumes and market share.
• Set and monitor branch sales targets, ensuring consistent achievement.
• Identify new business opportunities and expansion prospects.
• Optimize pricing strategies in line with market trends and profitability goals.

4. Stock & Inventory Management

• Ensure accurate stock records and real-time system updates across all branches.
• Oversee procurement, stock replenishment, and inventory turnover.
• Investigate and resolve stock shortages, damages, and discrepancies.
• Enforce proper cold chain management and product handling standards.

5. Staff Supervision & Development

• Provide strong leadership and direction to branch managers and supervisors.
• Recruit, train, and mentor operational staff to build a high-performance culture.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and enforce discipline where necessary.
• Instill a culture of integrity, accountability, and professionalism.

6. Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with all regulatory, safety, and food handling standards.
• Identify operational risks and implement mitigation strategies.
• Investigate incidents of misconduct, negligence, or non-compliance and take appropriate action.

7. Reporting & Strategic Planning

• Prepare and present detailed operational and financial reports to senior management.
• Contribute to strategic planning and policy formulation.
• Provide data-driven insights to support executive decision-making.

Required Skills or Experience

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• Minimum of 15 years’ relevant experience in cold store operations, FMCG, or a similar industry.
• Strong background in Accounting, Finance, or Auditing (professional certification is an advantage).
• Must be 50 years of age or above, demonstrating maturity, leadership depth, and sound judgment.
• Proven track record in managing multi-branch operations.
• Experience in enforcing internal controls and operational compliance.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Strong leadership and decision-making ability
• High level of integrity and accountability
• Excellent financial and analytical skills
• Operational efficiency and problem-solving mindset
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work under pressure and deliver results

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS (KPIs)

• Branch profitability and revenue growth
• Reduction in stock losses and discrepancies
• Compliance with operational and financial controls
• Staff productivity and performance levels
• Customer satisfaction and service delivery

WORK ETHIC & EXPECTATIONS

• Demonstrate a hands-on approach to management and problem-solving.
• Maintain strict discipline and zero tolerance for operational lapses.
• Be available to travel frequently across branches for supervision and audits.
• Uphold the company’s values and lead by example at all times.

REMUNERATION

• Competitive and commensurate with experience, including performance-based incentives.

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