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