Operations Manager

Position Summary

The Operations Manager is responsible for the overall management, coordination, and supervision of the Company’s inspection, sampling, testing, laboratory, and related operational activities. The role ensures the efficient delivery of services while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, compliance, operational excellence, and customer satisfaction.

The Operations Manager will lead field and laboratory operations, manage personnel and resources, oversee project execution, ensure compliance with industry regulations and international standards, and contribute to the achievement of the Company’s strategic and financial objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Management

• Manage and oversee all inspection, sampling, testing, laboratory, and field operations.
• Ensure timely execution of inspection and testing assignments in accordance with client requirements, contractual obligations, and company procedures.
• Optimize operational efficiency, resource utilization, and service delivery performance.
• Develop and implement operational plans, procedures, and performance targets.
• Monitor operational KPIs and implement corrective actions where necessary.
• Ensure effective deployment of inspectors, laboratory personnel, equipment, and vehicles.

Quality Assurance & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with Company Quality Management Systems, including ISO 17020, ISO 17025, ISO 9001, and other applicable standards.
• Maintain adherence to industry standards, client specifications, and regulatory requirements.
• Support internal and external audits and ensure timely closure of corrective actions.
• Promote continuous improvement initiatives throughout the operation.

Health, Safety, Security & Environment (HSSE)

• Promote and maintain a strong safety culture across all operational activities.
• Ensure compliance with Company HSSE policies, local regulations, and client safety requirements.
• Conduct operational risk assessments and implement mitigation measures.
• Investigate incidents, near misses, and non-conformities and ensure appropriate corrective actions are implemented.

Client Relationship Management

• Maintain strong relationships with clients and stakeholders.
• Ensure high levels of customer satisfaction through consistent service delivery.
• Address client concerns, operational issues, and service escalations in a timely and professional manner.
• Participate in client meetings, operational reviews, and business development initiatives.

Financial & Resource Management

• Manage operational budgets and control operating costs.
• Monitor profitability of operational activities and recommend efficiency improvements.
• Ensure effective utilization and maintenance of operational assets and equipment.
• Review and approve operational expenditures within delegated authority limits.

Leadership & People Management

• Lead, motivate, and develop operational teams including inspectors, laboratory staff, coordinators, and supervisors.
• Conduct performance evaluations and establish development plans for employees.
• Identify staffing requirements and participate in recruitment, onboarding, and succession planning activities.
• Foster a culture of accountability, professionalism, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Business Development Support

• Support commercial and business development teams with technical and operational expertise.
• Participate in tender reviews, operational feasibility assessments, and service implementation planning.
• Identify opportunities for operational expansion and service enhancement.

Reporting

• Prepare and submit operational, financial, safety, and performance reports to management.
• Analyze operational trends and recommend strategic improvements.
• Ensure accurate documentation and record management across all operational functions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Chemistry, Petroleum Studies, Industrial Management, or a related discipline.
• Professional certifications related to inspection, quality management, laboratory operations, or HSSE are advantageous.

Experience

• Minimum 5–10 years of experience within the oil & gas, petroleum inspection, testing, laboratory, or related industries.
• Minimum 5 years of management or supervisory experience.
• Strong understanding of petroleum inspection, cargo inspection, laboratory testing, quality assurance, and operational management.
• Experience working with international inspection and testing standards and regulatory requirements.

Knowledge & Skills

• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
• Excellent operational planning and organizational skills.
• Strong knowledge of petroleum inspection and laboratory operations.
• Comprehensive understanding of ISO standards and quality management systems.
• Financial and commercial awareness.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and operational management systems.

Working Conditions

The role may require regular travel to terminals, refineries, laboratories, ports, offshore facilities, client locations, and operational sites as required by business needs.

To apply: Please send your CV to HR.Africa@amspecgroup.com.