Operations Manager

Would you like to be part of a value-driven, commercially oriented international environment where we enable global trade every day?

The Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the cold storage facility, ensuring the safe, efficient, and effective storage and handling of cargo. This role involves managing the operations team, collaborating with cold store management and the logistics team, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations, and optimizing operational performance to meet customer needs and organizational goals.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Facility Operations Management

1. Oversee the daily activities within the cold storage facility, ensuring all operations are running efficiently and safely.
2. Manage the inbound and outbound operations of fruit, ensuring efficient scheduling of resources in a cost-effective and safe manner.
3. Ensure that the temperature conditions are consistently monitored and adjusted to meet the specific requirements for different types of fruit.
4. Oversee inventory management ensuring location accuracy and effective utilization.
5. Analyze operational processes to identify areas for improvement to reduce inefficiency and increase cost-effectiveness.

Team Management

1. Lead, train, and develop a team of cold store workers, forklift operators, and support staff, ensuring that they have the skills and knowledge to perform their roles safely and efficiently.
2. Conduct regular performance reviews, provide feedback, and implement training programs to enhance the team’s productivity and engagement.
3. Develop and maintain a positive work environment that promotes teamwork, communication, and a focus on health and safety.

Health & Safety Compliance

1. Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, environmental, and health regulations, including temperature control and food safety standards (e.g., HACCP).
2. Regularly conduct safety audits, training, and implement corrective actions to maintain a safe working environment.
3. Ensure proper handling, storage, and labeling of fruit to meet industry standards and requirements.

Quality Control & Continuous Improvement

1. Drive continuous improvement initiatives in the areas of operational efficiency, cost control, and service delivery.
2. Investigate operational issues and propose effective solutions to minimize downtime and improve overall facility performance.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

Experience

1. Minimum of 5 years of experience in operations management in a cold storage environment in the fruit industry.
2. Proven experience in managing a team and leading operations in a fast-paced environment.
3. Knowledge of cold storage processes, food safety standards, and inventory management systems.

Skills

1. Strong leadership and team management skills.
2. Excellent problem-solving, organizational, and analytical abilities.
3. Proficiency with warehouse management systems (WMS) and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, etc.).
4. Understanding of health, safety, and quality control regulations, particularly in the food industry.
5. Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with team members and clients.
6. Comfortable in a high-pressure cold store temperature environment.

Certifications (required):

1. Forklift Operator Certification

Working Conditions

1. The role requires working in a cold storage environment and occasionally at heights of up to 10m.
2. Ability to perform manual labor and work with heavy equipment.
3. Some flexibility in working hours may be needed to accommodate emergency repairs or project deadlines.