Job Summary
An established organisation within the chemical manufacturing and distribution sector is seeking an experienced Branch Operations Manager to oversee the effective day-to-day operation of its branch.
The successful candidate will take responsibility for production planning, manufacturing output, warehousing, stock control, fleet utilisation, deliveries, team leadership, customer service and operational compliance. This role requires a hands-on operational leader who can balance efficiency, product quality, safety, cost control and service delivery.
Key Responsibilities
Manage daily branch operations and overall operational performance
Oversee manufacturing and weekly production planning
Coordinate labour, batching priorities, equipment readiness and production output
Ensure manufactured products meet approved quality, labelling and traceability standards
Manage warehouse layout, stock movement, receiving, dispatch and safe storage practices
Maintain accurate inventory through cycle counts, monthly stock takes and variance investigations
Monitor minimum and maximum stock levels based on customer demand and supplier lead times
Coordinate supplier ordering and ensure raw materials and stock are available when required
Manage the branch fleet, delivery planning, driver allocation and route efficiency
Monitor vehicle fuel usage, mileage, licensing, servicing and maintenance requirements
Track delivery performance, proof of delivery, returns, damages and customer complaints
Oversee branch administration, including order processing, invoicing, quotations and customer liaison
Ensure creditor and debtor records are maintained accurately and in line with company standards
Compile month-end reports and assist with expense budgets and cost control
Support branch profitability by monitoring operational expenses, logistics costs and utilities
Lead, coach, train and cross-train operational and administrative employees
Set daily priorities, allocate resources and address productivity or performance concerns
Oversee internal sales processes and support the team with customer requirements
Ensure customers receive accurate product information, pricing and delivery updates
Drive workflow improvements between sales, administration, production, warehouse, dispatch and finance
Monitor operational KPIs, including production output, order accuracy, stock variance, fleet costs and customer service
Maintain professional standards across the warehouse, production areas, offices, yard, equipment and vehicles
Ensure full compliance with SHEQ, ISO, legal and regulatory requirements
Lead incident investigations relating to accidents, spills, damages and non-conformances
Maintain audit readiness for internal audits, external inspections and ISO reviews
Promote a strong culture of safety, accountability, teamwork and customer service
Minimum Requirements
Relevant tertiary qualification in Operations Management, Production, Supply Chain, Logistics, Business Management or a related field
Proven experience in branch operations, manufacturing, warehousing, stock control and logistics
Strong leadership and people-management experience
Experience managing production planning and operational performance
Knowledge of SHEQ, ISO standards and regulatory compliance
Sound financial understanding, including budgets, cost control and branch profitability
Strong knowledge of inventory management, fleet control and delivery operations
Experience within chemical manufacturing, industrial products or a similar environment will be advantageous
Excellent planning, communication, problem-solving and decision-making skills
Strong customer-service orientation and the ability to manage multiple operational priorities
Skills and Competencies
Operational leadership
Production and manufacturing management
Warehouse and inventory control
Fleet and logistics management
SHEQ and ISO compliance
Financial and cost-control awareness
Team leadership and employee development
Planning and organisation
Problem-solving and decision-making
Customer-service management
Process improvement
Attention to detail