Executive Manager: Operations

The Executive Manager: Operations position at the Supplier Park Development Company (SOC) Ltd, trading as the AIDC, is a senior leadership role based in Rosslyn, Gauteng, within the Operations Division. The AIDC is a government-owned public entity established to support the South African automotive industry in its drive toward global competitiveness. This role is offered on a five-year fixed-term employment contract and reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer, making it a pivotal position within the organisation’s executive structure. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading and managing the organisation’s day-to-day operations, with oversight spanning facilities planning and development, facilities maintenance, business support services, safety, health, environment and quality (SHEQ), and information and communication technology (ICT). The core purpose is to ensure the effective execution of the organisation’s strategy and business plan in support of key strategic objectives.

Key responsibilities include developing and implementing the operational strategy and divisional roadmaps, managing strategic stakeholder relationships across government, industry, and partners, and overseeing divisional budgeting, financial management, and expenditure control. The role also provides strategic oversight of office administration and facilities management, ensuring operational efficiency, risk management, compliance, and governance adherence. The Executive Manager will lead infrastructure development and maintenance, ICT, SHEQ, and security functions, while also overseeing organisational reporting, including non-financial performance reporting. Driving strategic projects, innovation, and continuous improvement initiatives forms a central part of the role, as does leading and managing a multidisciplinary team. This is a broad, hands-on executive position requiring strong operational and administrative leadership across multiple support functions.

Candidates must hold a Matric (Grade 12) and a Bachelor’s Degree at NQF Level 7 in the Built Environment, such as Quantity Surveying, Property Management, Facilities Management, Construction Management, Real Estate, Architecture, or a related field. A postgraduate qualification at NQF Level 8 in Built Environment, Business Management, Operations Management, Project Management, or a related field is also required. Professional registration with a relevant Built Environment Council, for example as a PrQS, PrCPM, PrCM, or PrArch, will be an added advantage. Applicants need a minimum of ten years’ management experience, with at least five years at an Executive or Senior Management level within industrial park or property management. Experience in facilities development and planning, facilities maintenance, business support services, SHEQ, and ICT will be advantageous. A strong background in strategic and financial management, operations and administrative leadership is essential, along with knowledge of process optimisation, integration, continuous improvement, project management, corporate governance, business controls, and Board-level reporting.

The AIDC is an equal opportunity employer, and appointments will be made in line with the organisation’s Employment Equity policy. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. This is an executive-level opportunity for a seasoned operations leader seeking to make a significant impact within a government-owned entity that plays a strategic role in the automotive sector. The position offers the chance to shape operational strategy, drive infrastructure and technology initiatives, and lead a diverse team in a dynamic and mission-driven environment.