OPERATIONAL STANDARDS LEAD

OPERATIONAL STANDARDS LEAD – WESTERN CAPE

TITLE

OPERATIONAL STANDARDS LEAD

REPORTS TO

COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS MANAGER JOB SUMMARY

To drive operational excellence and standardisation across WastePlan's Western Cape operations. Responsible for conducting operational audits identifying performance gaps implementing corrective actions improving profitability service delivery waste diversion and housekeeping standards while supporting Contract Managers through coaching operational guidance and continuous improvement initiatives. RESPONSIBILITIES

Operational management

Conduct regular site visits and operational audits to assess operational

performance service quality housekeeping safety and compliance with company

standards.

Identify operational inefficiencies risks and root causes and implement practical

corrective action plans.

Monitor and improve operational KPIs labour productivity waste diversion

performance and site profitability.

Support Contract Managers in implementing operational improvements and

achieving contractual objectives.

Ensure consistency in operational standards procedures and best practices across

all regional sites.

Monitor site presentation and housekeeping standards and implement site

improvement initiatives where required.

Lead regional operational makeover projects including layouts equipment

placement signage branding and infrastructure enhancements.

Investigate recurring operational issues and implement sustainable corrective

measures.

Support client escalations relating to operational performance and assist in

restoring client confidence through effective resolution plans.

Reporting

Conduct operational audits and compile audit reports detailing findings

recommendations and corrective actions.

Monitor and report on operational trends risks opportunities and performance

indicators.

Track progress of corrective action plans and provide regular updates to the

Operations Manager.

Maintain accurate records of site inspections audits and improvement initiatives.

Prepare operational performance reports for management review.

Report on waste diversion performance and operational compliance metrics. Coaching and Development

Coach and mentor Contract Managers on operational best practices and

performance improvement strategies.

Support the onboarding and operational development of newly appointed

operational leaders.

Facilitate knowledge sharing and implementation of lessons learned across

regional contracts.

Encourage a culture of accountability continuous improvement and operational

excellence.

Provide guidance and support during implementation of new operational

standards and procedures. Client relations

Engage with clients regarding operational performance concerns and service

improvement initiatives.

Assist Contract Managers in resolving operational service delivery challenges.

Support client retention by ensuring operational standards are maintained and

service expectations are achieved.

Participate in client meetings where operational interventions or corrective

actions are required.

Build professional relationships with clients to support operational excellence and

customer satisfaction.

SHEQ responsibilities

Ensure operational activities align with company SHEQ policies and client

requirements.

Monitor site compliance with health safety environmental and quality standards.

Identify operational risks and implement corrective actions to mitigate potential

incidents.

Support compliance audits and ensure operational standards are maintained.

Promote safe working practices and continuous compliance improvement across

all sites.

COMPENTENCIES

Strong operational management and auditing skills.

Excellent problem-solving and root cause analysis capabilities.

Sound understanding of operational costing and profitability management.

Strong planning organisational and project management skills.

Ability to influence and coach without direct authority.

Excellent interpersonal and stakeholder management skills.

Strong verbal and written communication skills.

High attention to detail and accuracy.

Ability to analyse data identify trends and implement practical solutions.

Self-motivated and capable of working independently.

Results-driven with a strong focus on operational improvement and

accountability.

Excellent Microsoft Office skills.

Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

Strong client engagement and relationship management skills.

Willingness to travel extensively between operational sites.

Ability to perform effectively under pressure and within changing operational

environments.

REQUIREMENTS

Grade 12 / Matric.

Minimum 5 years' operational management experience within a service or

operational environment.

Experience in operational performance improvement optimisation KPI

management and reporting.

Strong understanding of labour productivity workforce planning operational

costing and profitability.

Experience within the waste management recycling or environmental services

industry.

Operational auditing experience.

Valid driver's licence.

Advanced Microsoft Office proficiency.

Relevant qualification in Operations Management Engineering Business

Management Logistics or a related field will be advantageous.

Willingness to travel extensively throughout the Western Cape region.

Employment will be implemented in accordance with the Employment Equity Act. Only Applicants considered for the role will be contacted.

Closing date: 03rd September 2026 Should you wish to apply please forward a copy of your CV to