COO Recruitment South Africa
PMG recruits Chief Operating Officers and Operations Directors across South Africa — leaders who run complex, multi-site operations in manufacturing, logistics, mining and industrial businesses.
PMG Recruitment Services has been placing senior leaders in South Africa since 2008. Executive appointments are run discreetly, often without public advertising, and every candidate is assessed against the leadership and commercial demands of the role — not just their CV.
What This Role Covers
COOs and Operations Directors are typically responsible for:
- Running operations across one or more sites or regions
- Safety, quality, cost and service performance
- Capital projects, capacity and efficiency improvements
- Leading plant, depot, site and functional managers
- Labour relations and large workforces
- Turning strategy into day-to-day operational delivery
What We Assess
We assess the scale and complexity of operations led, measurable improvements in safety, cost and output, multi-site and labour-relations experience, capital project delivery, and the ability to work alongside the CEO and board.
COO and Operations Director Remuneration
Our Manufacturing Salary Guide 2026 puts experienced Manufacturing / Operations Directors at roughly R140k–R190k per month CTC and senior leaders at R190k–R260k+, before incentives. COO packages in larger groups are typically higher.
Example Role Profile
See an example of the kind of COO role we typically recruit for: view the role profile.
Part of Our Executive Search Practice
This role is part of PMG’s Executive Search practice, covering CEOs, Managing Directors, COOs, CFOs, directors and senior functional heads across South African industry.
Current Vacancies
Browse our current vacancies for open roles we’re recruiting for right now. If nothing matches today, submit your CV via the Candidate Portal and we’ll be in touch when a suitable role comes up.
How We Work
- We take a detailed, confidential brief on the role, the board or leadership team, and the business context.
- We map the market and approach candidates directly, including those who are not looking.
- We assess leadership track record against your context and present a shortlist with detailed reports.
- We support you through interviews, referencing, offer and a discreet transition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you recruit Operations Directors as well as COOs?
Yes. See also our Operations Director role profile.
Which sectors do you cover?
Mainly manufacturing, logistics, mining, engineering and energy.
Is the search confidential?
Yes, executive searches are run discreetly.
Hiring a COO?
Tell us about the role and a consultant will get back to you with next steps — or browse our current vacancies if you’re looking for your next role.