Managing Director

The Managing Director will lead a newly formed, youthful Executive Committee (Exco), providing strategic and operational oversight to drive the company's growth. This full-time, on-site role demands a seasoned professional with senior experience in construction, manufacturing, or as a professional engineer/architect, capable of managing clients, staff, factory operations, and business expansion while aligning with the companys values of excellence and agility. The MD will ensure compliance with South African corporate governance standards, including the Companies Act 2008 and King IV principles, fostering sustainable growth in a competitive sector. This position is based exclusively at the Germiston factory, with no option to run the business from home.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement business strategies to achieve financial and operational objectives, advising the board on market opportunities and risks while driving expansion into new regions.
• Client and Stakeholder Management: Build and maintain relationships with retail clients, government bodies, and partners, ensuring high client satisfaction and retention through timely project delivery and high-level sales.
• Staff and Exco Leadership: Mentor and supervise a young Exco, promote a collaborative culture, oversee staff development across factory and office environments, and ensure compliance with labor laws, fostering diversity and wellness.
• Operational and Factory Oversight: Optimize the facilitys manufacturing processes, leveraging advanced technologies and MRP systems to enhance efficiencies and quality in bespoke/specialized manufacturing (not large-scale single-line production).
• Financial and Risk Management: Oversee budgeting, financial forecasting, and compliance with legal standards, mitigating risks such as currency fluctuations and ensuring solvency, with strong financial acumen required.
• Innovation and ESG Integration: Drive innovative solutions, integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles per the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA), and enhance community impact reporting per King IV.

Essential Qualifications

• Advanced degree (Masters or equivalent) in Business Administration, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.
• 15+ years of senior-level experience in medium- to large-scale bespoke/specialized manufacturing, construction, or professional services, with at least 5-10 years in an MD or equivalent role.
• Proven track record in strategic planning, revenue growth, managing multifaceted business operations, MRP systems, manufacturing efficiencies, and reporting to a board.

Essential Skills and Competencies

• Leadership: Exceptional ability to mentor a young executive team, foster collaboration, and manage staff in both factory and office settings.
• Strategic Thinking: Strong market analysis and visionary planning to identify growth opportunities and mitigate industry challenges like tight deadlines.
• Operational Expertise: Proficiency in optimizing manufacturing processes, supply chain management, and technology integration (e.g., CNC machinery, proprietary systems).
• Financial Acumen: Expertise in budgeting, forecasting, and risk management, with knowledge of South African corporate law (Companies Act 2008); M&A experience is a plus.
• Communication: Outstanding negotiation, relationship-building, public speaking, and high-level sales skills to engage clients, stakeholders, and staff; must be presentable and well-spoken.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with South African governance frameworks (King IV, NEMA) and labor laws to ensure compliance and ethical leadership.
• Adaptability: Ability to remain calm under pressure, resolve crises, and innovate in a fast-paced environment.

Key Challenges

• Balancing legacy practices with modern business strategies to ensure innovation.
• Navigating economic variables like currency fluctuations impacting exports and costs.
• Meeting tight deadlines to avoid client losses in a high-pressure industry.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary package aligned with market standards for senior executives in South Africas manufacturing sector.
• Performance-based incentives tied to revenue growth and operational efficiency.
• Comprehensive benefits, including medical aid and retirement contributions (details provided upon application).
• No equity opportunities for the first five years.
• Annual leave: 4 weeks in December.

Work Schedule and Environment

• Full-time position at the Germiston factory; work starts at 7:30 AM Monday to Friday, ends at 5:00 PM Monday to Thursday and 3:00 PM on Friday.
• May require working on Saturdays for urgent matters; Sundays for emergencies only.
• Potential travel within South Africa for client engagements and project oversight.
• Collaborative culture emphasizing agility, quality, and client-centric solutions.
• Fast-paced setting requiring adaptability to meet industry demands.