Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Overview

My client is a Durban-based importer and wholesale distributor of hardware products, supplying customers across South Africa and neighbouring countries. As they transition from a semi-corporate business to a fully corporatised company, they are seeking a dynamic and experienced Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead this transformation. This is a permanent, office-based role located in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.

Responsibilities

As the COO, you will report directly to the Director and oversee the operational aspects of the business. Your key responsibilities will include:

• Business Transformation: Lead the corporatisation of the company by establishing structured reporting lines, documented policies, and sound governance practices.
• Internal Audit and Reporting: Establish and manage the internal audit programme and oversee the preparation of the monthly management pack (MANAC) for the entire company.
• Sales Leadership: Drive sales targets by engaging with the sales team, monitoring performance, and ensuring regions are adequately covered. Present daily and weekly sales dashboards to the Director.
• Financial Alignment: Collaborate with the General Manager and Finance team to align sales and debtors figures for accurate cash flow projections.
• Warehouse and Logistics Management: Directly manage warehousing operations and oversee dispatch, logistics, and other operational functions through the General Manager.
• Surveillance and Incident Management: Lead the company’s surveillance centre, review incident reports, and ensure appropriate follow-up actions are taken.
• Human Resources and Development: Oversee HR functions, including hiring, policy development, and the establishment of a Learning and Development Centre.
• Technology and Automation: Lead the implementation of AI architecture, reporting automation, and systems integration, including Sage ERP.
• Process Documentation: Develop and document detailed workflows for all company processes.

Qualifications

To be successful in this role, you should meet the following requirements:

• Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)) qualification.
• A minimum of 10 years of professional experience, with at least 5 years in a senior management role.
• Background in wholesale distribution of imported hardware products and key account management (preferred).
• Proven track record of implementing systems, process improvements, and reporting automation.
• Advanced proficiency in Sage ERP and Microsoft Excel (including VBA macros, Power Query, and advanced formulas), with the ability to build linked workbooks across departments.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 applications.
• Exceptional attention to detail.
• Strong communication skills and high emotional intelligence, with the ability to lead and motivate teams both in person and virtually.