Operations Manager

Job description

HAIL & COTTON, a leading global tobacco leaf merchant, are currently recruiting for their Zambia Operations. The following positions are vacant.

OPERATIONS MANAGER

Key Duties & Responsibilities:

Buying Floor Operations:

Supervise daily operations of the external buying floors.
Ensure safety protocols, and operational procedures are adhered to.

Logistics & Shipping:

Manage and coordinate with Agronomy on bale shunting from growers to sales floor.
Oversee logistics for all purchased tobacco, ensuring timely and secure transport from sales floors to warehouses and factories.
Oversee the shipping of all packed tobacco, in coordination with shipping department, freight and logistics partners.
Maintain accurate records of inventory movement and shipping documentation.

Fleet Management:

Manage the company’s fleet of vehicles and motorbikes, ensuring regular maintenance, licensing, and optimal utilization.
Implement tracking systems and fuel management protocols to control costs and improve efficiency

Agronomy Support:

Coordinate with the Head of Agronomy to plan and execute input distribution to growers.
Provide operational support to agronomy teams during peak season or as needed.

Team Leadership:

Lead and manage all logistics, shipping, and buying floor personnel
Conduct regular performance reviews, training, and team development initiatives.
Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement.
To establish departmental goals in collaboration with Agronomy Director – Africa, Head of Agronomy and Finance under the guidance of the Managing Director.
To develop project scopes, budgets, benchmarks, and schedules. Strong research, decision-making, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills are key
To perform additional duties assigned by management or immediate supervisor as and when required

Skills and Qualifications

Diploma in Operations Management, Logistics, Agriculture, or a related field.
Minimum 6 years of experience in tobacco operations, logistics and supply chain management.
Strong leadership and team management skills
Excellent organizational and problem-solving abilities.
Proficiency in logistics software and Microsoft Office Suite.
Valid driver’s license.
Strategic planning and execution.
Communication and interpersonal skills.
Attention to detail and accuracy.
Adaptability and resilience under pressure
Knowledge of agricultural supply chains (preferred).

Mode of application: Electronic only, please send to the following email address, zambia@hailcotton.com

Closing date: 15 July 2025, 15:00 hrs

Source: Zambia Daily Mail, 14/07/25, Page 18