General Manager

Our client, a well-established automotive electronics and vehicle security solutions company, is seeking a dynamic and commercially driven General Manager to lead their operations based in Durban.

This role is ideal for a strategic and hands-on leader with strong experience in business development, sales, and operational management within the automotive, electronics, or manufacturing sectors. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving growth, expanding market presence (locally and internationally), and ensuring operational excellence across the business.

Duties and Responsibilities

· Develop and execute business development and sales strategies across domestic and export markets

· Grow and manage distributor networks, partnerships, and key client relationships

· Drive revenue growth through lead generation, customer acquisition, and retention initiatives

· Oversee and execute marketing strategies to enhance brand visibility and product positioning

· Lead cross-functional projects from concept through to commercialisation

· Provide strategic direction on product development, pricing, and lifecycle management

· Collaborate with R&D and engineering teams to align product design with market requirements

· Implement operational structures, systems, and processes to improve efficiency and scalability

· Develop and monitor KPIs, dashboards, and performance metrics across the business

· Lead, mentor, and develop high-performing teams across sales, marketing, and support functions

· Manage outsourced partners, suppliers, and service providers, ensuring performance and cost efficiency

· Drive continuous improvement initiatives across operations and commercial functions

Minimum Requirements

· Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or a related field (MBA or postgraduate qualification advantageous)

· 8–10 years’ experience in senior leadership roles within automotive, electronics, or manufacturing environments

· Proven experience in B2B sales, export development, and commercial strategy

· Strong project management experience managing cross-functional and technical teams

· Solid product management experience, including product lifecycle and commercialisation

· Experience with ERP/CRM systems, KPI tracking, and performance reporting

· Demonstrated ability to lead teams, implement KPIs, and drive performance

· Experience managing outsourced partners and contract negotiations

· Strong commercial acumen with an entrepreneurial and hands-on leadership approach