Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng
Job Type: Permanent
Closing Date: 31 January 2026
Reference Number: ELL-COO-JHB
About the Company – Ellahi Consulting
Ellahi Consulting is a premier South African recruitment and consulting firm specialising in aviation, freight, logistics, and senior management placements. Partnering with top national and international organisations, Ellahi Consulting connects executive talent with strategic leadership opportunities across the transport and cargo sector.
Their client, a leading cargo and freight company, is committed to delivering efficient, reliable, and customer-focused logistics solutions. The organisation values operational excellence, strategic leadership, and a culture of accountability, offering a high-impact environment for senior professionals to influence growth, profitability, and industry innovation.
Position Overview
The Johannesburg head office is seeking a Chief Operating Officer (COO) to oversee and optimise company operations, cross-functional teams, and strategic initiatives within the cargo and freight sector. This is an EE – African applicant position in line with employment equity policy.
Reporting to the CEO, the COO will be accountable for operational efficiency, workflow optimisation, business strategy execution, and financial performance. This senior leadership role requires a visionary professional capable of driving productivity, managing risk, enhancing customer service, and leading organisational transformation.
The COO will lead operational strategy, risk management, compliance, and talent development to ensure the company achieves its growth and service objectives while maintaining high standards of safety and regulatory compliance.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
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Collaborate with the CEO and executive team to define and drive the organisational vision and operational strategy.
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Develop business strategies aligned with short- and long-term growth objectives.
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Oversee daily operations, employee productivity, and cross-functional collaboration.
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Implement efficient workflows, cost-effective processes, and best practices across the business.
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Monitor performance, evaluate results, and adjust strategies for continuous improvement.
Financial & Business Management
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Develop and manage operational budgets in alignment with company strategy and BEE requirements.
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Identify cost-saving opportunities and optimise financial performance.
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Analyse operational and financial data to inform strategic decisions.
Risk, Compliance & Reporting
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Ensure compliance with laws, industry regulations, and company policies.
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Implement risk mitigation strategies and monitor operational and financial performance.
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Maintain integrity of regulatory documentation and supplier agreements.
Customer Service & Retention
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Lead strategic partnerships, manage contracts, and maintain strong customer relationships.
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Develop and implement account management strategies to enhance client retention and satisfaction.
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Identify opportunities to expand services and drive business growth.
Talent & Technology Management
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Lead, coach, and mentor senior managers and departmental heads.
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Promote a culture focused on equity, results, learning, and continuous improvement.
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Evaluate and implement market technologies to enhance operations, safety, and customer service.
Minimum Requirements
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Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Marketing, or Business Management (NQF Level 9).
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Minimum 10 years’ experience in the transport or logistics industry, with at least 5 years in executive leadership roles.
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In-depth knowledge of business functions including supply chain, operations, finance, and customer service.
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Experience in aviation, road freight, or cargo operations is advantageous.
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Strong project management, critical thinking, and leadership skills.
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Excellent interpersonal, communication, and decision-making abilities.
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Own reliable vehicle and flexibility to participate in after-hours operational activities.
Core Competencies
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Strategic thinking and operational excellence
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Leadership and team development
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Financial and analytical acumen
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Risk management and regulatory compliance
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Customer-focused mindset
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Agile, results-driven, and detail-oriented
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Strong negotiation, planning, and problem-solving skills
Why Join This Company?
This leadership role offers an exceptional opportunity to:
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Influence strategic operational decisions within a leading cargo and freight company.
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Drive efficiency, profitability, and organisational growth.
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Lead and mentor high-performing teams in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
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Gain exposure to aviation, logistics, and transport industry best practices.
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Access competitive CTC, benefits, and leadership development opportunities including a fuel card and cellphone allowance.
POPIA Compliance Notice
Ellahi Consulting and its clients process personal information in line with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). By applying, you consent to your personal data being used for recruitment purposes.
How to Apply
Qualified candidates should apply via the official Ellahi Consulting Careers portal:
➡️ Apply on the Ellahi Consulting Website
Applications are open to designated EE candidates. If you do not receive feedback within two weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.
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