Operations Manager Hammer Cameroon Douala, Cameroon

Operations Manager Position at Hammer Cameroon

In the dynamic and demanding sector of industrial operations, the role of an Operations Manager is pivotal. This individual serves as the central nervous system of multi-site activities, ensuring that planning, execution, and compliance are seamlessly integrated to drive performance and sustainable growth. Hammer Cameroon is seeking a seasoned and strategic Operations Manager to oversee and optimize our diverse operational footprint across Cameroon. This is a high-impact leadership role for a professional who thrives on responsibility and is driven by tangible results.

Based in Douala, the economic hub of Cameroon, you will be entrusted with the comprehensive management of our field operations. Your mandate will be to ensure that all activities are conducted safely, efficiently, and in strict alignment with our organizational objectives for quality, cost, and performance. If you are a leader who can navigate complexity, inspire teams, and implement robust systems, this role represents a significant career opportunity to make your mark.

---

The Role: Operations Manager

As the Operations Manager for Hammer Cameroon, you will hold ultimate responsibility for the planning, execution, and continuous improvement of all operational activities. You are the key leader ensuring that our multi-site operations function as a cohesive, efficient, and safe unit.

Your core responsibilities will be structured across five critical domains:

1. Strategic Planning and Execution:

• Develop Operational Strategies: Create and implement comprehensive operational plans that align with the company’s strategic goals and financial targets.

• Resource Allocation: Strategically allocate human, technical, and financial resources across multiple sites to maximize productivity and meet project deadlines.

• Project Management: Oversee the end-to-end execution of key operational projects, from initial scoping and budgeting to final delivery and review.

2. Financial Management and Cost Optimization:

• Budgetary Control: Develop, manage, and adhere to the annual operations budget. You will be responsible for presenting financial forecasts and reports to senior management.

• Cost-Reduction Initiatives: Proactively identify opportunities for cost savings without compromising on safety or quality. This includes optimizing supply chains, improving asset utilization, and reducing waste across all operational processes.

• Financial Performance Analysis: Monitor key financial metrics (KPIs) to assess the health of operations and implement corrective actions where necessary.

3. Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Compliance:

• Champion a Safety-First Culture: You will be the leading advocate for HSE standards, ensuring that safety is the non-negotiable foundation of every operation.

• Implement and Enforce HSE Protocols: Develop, maintain, and rigorously enforce comprehensive HSE policies and procedures in compliance with both company standards and Cameroonian regulations.

• Conduct Audits and Investigations: Lead regular HSE audits and inspections across all sites. In the event of an incident, you will lead the investigation to determine the root cause and implement preventive measures.

4. Multi-Site Performance Management:

• Performance Monitoring: Establish and track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for each operational site, focusing on areas such as productivity, quality, downtime, and on-time delivery.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilize operational data to analyze performance trends, identify bottlenecks, and drive informed decisions that enhance efficiency and output.

• Continuous Improvement: Instill a culture of Kaizen (continuous improvement) by leading initiatives such as Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma projects to streamline processes and eliminate inefficiencies.

5. Leadership and Team Development:

• Lead and Mentor Site Managers: Provide direct leadership, coaching, and mentorship to site managers and supervisors, fostering a high-performance management team.

• Talent Development: Identify skill gaps and work with HR to develop training programs that build capability within the operations team.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Act as the primary point of contact for operational matters, effectively communicating with internal stakeholders (senior leadership, support departments) and external partners (suppliers, regulators, local communities).

The Ideal Candidate Profile

We are looking for a decisive leader with a proven track record in managing complex industrial operations. The ideal candidate is both a strategist and a hands-on problem-solver.

Required Qualifications and Experience:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Management, Operations Management, or a related field. A Master’s degree (e.g., MBA) is a strong advantage.

• A minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in operations management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role overseeing multi-site activities.

• Demonstrable experience in a heavy industry such as manufacturing, construction, logistics, mining, or oil and gas.

• Proven expertise in developing and managing large operational budgets and delivering on cost-optimization targets.

• Deep, practical knowledge of HSE management systems and a proven ability to implement a strong safety culture.

• Strong analytical skills and experience with performance metrics and data-driven management.

• Full professional proficiency in English is required.

Essential Skills and Competencies:

• Leadership and Influence: The ability to lead, motivate, and hold teams accountable across dispersed locations.

• Financial Acumen: Strong business and financial savvy, with the ability to understand P&L statements and manage operational finances effectively.

• Problem-Solving: Excellent analytical and root-cause analysis skills to resolve complex operational challenges.

• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional ability to communicate clearly and persuasively with diverse teams, senior executives, and external partners.

• Resilience and Adaptability: The capacity to perform under pressure and adapt to the dynamic challenges of the Cameroonian operational context.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous work experience in Cameroon or West/Central Africa is a significant advantage.

• Professional proficiency in French is highly desirable for effective local engagement.

• Formal certification in HSE (e.g., NEBOSH, IOSH), Project Management (PMP), or Lean/Six Sigma.

Location and Context

• Primary Location: Douala, Littoral Region, Cameroon. As the economic capital and home to the main port of Cameroon, Douala is a strategic location for industrial and logistical operations.

• Scope: This role requires regular travel to various operational sites across Cameroon.

Compensation and Benefits

Hammer Cameroon offers a comprehensive executive compensation package designed to attract top-tier talent. This includes:

• A highly competitive salary commensurate with the seniority and scope of the role.

• Performance-based annual bonus.

• Comprehensive health insurance for you and your eligible dependents.

• Housing and transportation allowances.

• Professional development opportunities and support for relevant certifications.

• Paid annual leave and travel allowances.

How to Apply

If you possess the leadership qualities, operational expertise, and drive to excel in this challenging role, we invite you to apply.

The application process is as follows:

1. Prepare Your Application:

   • Update your Curriculum Vitae (CV) to highlight your experience relevant to the responsibilities and skills listed above. Focus on quantifiable achievements (e.g., “reduced operational costs by X%,” “improved site safety record by Y%”).

   • A tailored cover letter is essential. Please use it to explain your specific interest in Hammer Cameroon and how your background aligns with the demands of this Operations Manager position.

2. Submit Your Application:

   • Email your CV and cover letter to our recruitment team.

   • Please ensure the subject line of your email clearly states: “Application for Operations Manager – [Your Name]”.