Operations Controller – New Manufacturing Site (Africa) - 100%
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Founded in Switzerland in 2017, Chaberton Partners is an international Human Capital firm and one of Europe’s fastest-growing Executive Search, Board Advisory, and Management Search. Chaberton Professionals is the Management Recruitment division of Chaberton Partners, specializing in the search and selection of middle and senior management profiles, supporting clients across several countries all over Europe. We combine a deep understanding of people and organizations with innovative tools and data-driven approaches. Our team is multicultural, dynamic, and passionate about delivering high-quality recruitment solutions.
Operations Controller – New Manufacturing Site (Africa)
Mission
The Operations Controller will play a pivotal role in establishing and managing the financial and operational control framework for a new manufacturing site being developed under a joint venture in Africa. This position ensures the implementation of robust systems, processes, and governance structures to support the site’s successful build-up, start-up, and transition into steady-state operations.
During the set-up phase, the Operations Controller will lead the design and execution of financial and operational controls, coordinate external and internal partners, and ensure full alignment with global group standards and existing operational models.
As the site becomes operational, the role will evolve into a key business partner role — driving cost efficiency, operational performance, and supply chain alignment across the organization.
The Operations Controller will also play a central role in monitoring production and procurement efficiency, demand and supply planning, inventory management, and ensuring full compliance with corporate policies and the Code of Conduct. Through analytical insight, collaboration, and proactive management, this role ensures the site operates with transparency, efficiency, and long-term financial sustainability.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the financial and operational implementation plan for the site’s establishment and production launch.
* Coordinate consultants and advisors supporting project phases such as finance structure, systems, compliance, and JV administration.
* Act as the main finance and control interface between the joint venture, external partners, and the corporate finance team.
* Oversee project budgets, milestones, and deliverables, ensuring adherence to governance, documentation, and compliance requirements.
* Prepare the site for a seamless transition into full operations.
* Design and implement the site’s controlling framework in alignment with group accounting and reporting principles.
* Develop and monitor budgets, forecasts, and performance analyses during both project and operational phases.
* Track production costs, material consumption, and labor efficiency, identifying and driving corrective actions.
* Deliver accurate and timely financial and operational reporting to group standards.
Operational Performance & KPI Management
* Align operational KPIs with group benchmarks and co-monitor them with site management.
* Support the local management team in setting performance baselines and implementing improvement plans.
* Provide data-driven insights to enhance operational decision-making and efficiency.
Supply Chain, Process Control & Compliance Management
* Support the joint venture in developing and executing procurement and due diligence policies.
* Partner with local and global teams to ensure best practices in supply chain and inventory management.
* Implement robust internal controls and conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with corporate policies, JV agreements, and local regulations.
* Oversee risk identification, mitigation planning, and corrective action implementation.
* Collaborate with IT and other departments to enhance systems and reporting tools.
Business Partnering
* Serve as a strategic partner to the CFO and operations leadership, providing insights for decision-making and long-term planning.
* Collaborate cross-functionally to align production, quality, costing, and reporting standards.
* Facilitate communication and alignment between local operations and global headquarters.
* Support strategic initiatives through scenario modelling, investment appraisal, and performance analysis.
Profile Requirements
* Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or related field.
* 10+ years of experience in financial control, manufacturing finance, or operations within an international organization.
* Strong understanding of cost accounting, operational KPIs, and supply chain processes.
* Experience in site start-up from scratch in Africa (ideally) / Asia, or greenfield projects is highly desirable.
* Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
* Ability to work collaboratively in multicultural and cross-functional environments.
* Willingness to travel (30%) or be based in Africa during key project phases.
Seniority level
* Mid-Senior level
Employment type
* Full-time
Job function
* Finance
Industries
* Pharmaceutical Manufacturing and Medical Equipment Manufacturing
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