Operations Lead

About the role

A client of Shugulika Africa Limited is looking for a dynamic, commercially minded and results-driven Operations Lead to run the day-to-day operations and overall performance of the business. The role translates business strategy into execution, drives revenue growth, improves operational performance, strengthens accountability and rebuilds team morale, and sits in the human resources sector.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and drive the execution of strategic and operational plans, turning goals into measurable objectives and performance indicators.
• Monitor performance against monthly, quarterly and annual targets and take corrective action.
• Drive a high-performance culture, identify new business opportunities and operational efficiencies, and support recruitment, HR advisory and consulting revenue targets.
• Support business development by strengthening client relationships, monitoring sales pipelines and conversion rates, and overseeing service delivery and recruiter productivity.
• Lead, coach and develop department heads and staff, conduct performance reviews, set KPIs and foster engagement and collaboration.
• Partner with the Finance Manager on budgets, operating costs, profitability and cash flow, and prepare operational and financial reports for senior leadership.
• Implement operational improvements, ensure compliance with legal and governance requirements, and work with internal stakeholders.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Human Resources, Commerce, Management or a related field; an MBA or postgraduate qualification is an added advantage.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive leadership experience in business operations, general management or a similar senior role.
• Proven experience in recruitment, HR consultancy, staffing, outsourcing, consulting or other professional services.
• Demonstrated success in driving growth, improving operations and leading organisational transformation.
• Experience in a growing SME, consultancy or service-based organisation is an added advantage.

Required skills

• Strong commercial and financial acumen, including budget management and profitability.
• Leadership of multidisciplinary teams and business development experience.
• Strategic planning, problem solving, change management and analytical skills.
• Communication, stakeholder management, negotiation and project management.