Operations Manager

Job Description
Job Title: Operations Manager, Matadi (Site Leader)
Location: Matadi, DRC
Reports To: General Manager / Managing Director
Job Type: Expatriate
General Purpose
The Operations Manager is the senior site leader responsible for the overall performance, governance, and long-term sustainability of the Matadi operation. The role combines operational excellence with strong leadership, stakeholder management, and transformation capability in a complex and evolving environment. The incumbent will ensure safe, efficient, and profitable operations while building a high-performing, aligned management team and strengthening governance, processes, and organizational discipline across the site.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership

• Oversee all site operations including milling, ship discharging, storage, warehousing, logistics, maintenance, quality, and workshop activities
• Ensure reliable, efficient, and cost-effective production aligned with business objectives
• Monitor and drive performance against KPIs, addressing gaps with clear action plans
• Ensure accuracy and integrity of production, inventory, and reporting data
  

Governance & Operating Discipline

• Enforce clear decision-making frameworks, roles, and escalation processes
• Ensure consistent implementation and adherence to SOPs across all departments
• Strengthen operational discipline and accountability throughout the organization
• Maintain robust internal controls, including inventory management and loss prevention
  

Leadership & Organizational Development

• Build, lead, and develop a high-performing and collaborative management team
• Foster a culture of accountability, respect, and psychological safety
• Manage cross-functional and cross-cultural dynamics between local and expatriate teams
• Address conflicts constructively and ensure professional communication standards
• Develop talent and succession plans to strengthen the local leadership pipeline
  

Operational Transformation & Continuous Improvement

• Lead initiatives to improve efficiency, transparency, and operational performance
• Identify and address legacy inefficiencies, process gaps, and areas of risk
• Drive continuous improvement mindset across all functions
• Optimize cost structure while maintaining operational integrity and quality standards
  

Stakeholder Management

• Represent the company with credibility and professionalism to authorities, partners, and the community
• Manage relationships with key stakeholders including port authorities, rail operators, and local administration
• Navigate complex regulatory, political, and labor environments effectively
• Ensure alignment between local operations and group expectations
  

Safety, Quality & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with company and local standards for safety, food safety, and environmental management
• Promote a strong safety culture and ensure adherence to all regulatory requirements
• Maintain high product quality standards aligned with customer expectations
  

Financial & Resource Management

• Manage operational budgets and cost performance
• Ensure appropriate purchasing governance and controls are in place
• Delegate authority within structured approval frameworks while maintaining oversight
• Optimize resource allocation across departments
  

Communication & Reporting

• Provide clear, structured, and timely reporting to senior management
• Ensure effective internal communication across departments and functions
• Align teams around common objectives and priorities
  

Direct Reports

• Head Miller
• Technical Manager
• Administrative Manager
• Quality & Laboratory Manager
• Port Operations Manager
• SHE Manager
• Food Safety Manager
• Mill accountant (dotted Line)
• HR Manager (dotted Line)
  

Education & Experience

• Degree in Milling Sciences or equivalent technical background preferred
• Minimum 10 years of management experience in milling or industrial operations
• Proven experience in leading complex operations in emerging/developing markets
• Experience in transformation, change management, or turnaround situations preferred
• Strong understanding of flour quality and production processes
  

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership presence with high emotional intelligence
• Ability to lead under pressure with composure and discipline
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to influence and align teams without relying on authority
• Strong organizational and analytical capabilities
• High integrity and resilience
• Fluent in French; good working knowledge of English
  

Working Conditions

• Remote and demanding operational environment
• Requires adaptability and resilience
• Occasional extended or irregular working hours depending on operational needs

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