Green Resources AS is East Africa’s largest forest development and wood processing company, managing approximately 38,000 hectares of plantation forest across Mozambique, Tanzania, and Uganda. The company operates several industrial facilities, including two sawmills, three pole treatment plants, and a veneer plant. Established in 1995, Green Resources is a private Norwegian company owned by New Forests’ Africa Forestry Impact Platform (AFIP).
About the role
The Chief Operating Officer will be a key member of our executive leadership team, reporting directly to the CEO and with frequent Board and Investor interaction. The role’s primary responsibility will be to drive operational excellence, streamline processes, and ensure seamless execution of our strategic initiatives including Capital Expansion Programs.
The Chief Operating Officer will play a critical role in shaping the company’s future by overseeing day-to-day operations, optimizing efficiency, and fostering a collaborative and results-driven culture.
Strategic Leadership:
- Collaborate closely with the CEO to define and execute the company’s vision, mission, and long-term strategy.
- Translate high-level business goals into actionable plans, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives.
- Develop and implement operational strategies that drive growth, efficiency, and profitability.
Operational Excellence:
- Oversee all aspects of daily operations, including production, supply chain, logistics, and customer service.
- Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure performance (incl. OEE) and track progress.
- Manage operational risk and ensure compliance with industry regulations and laws.
Team Leadership and Development:
- Lead and inspire cross-functional teams, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
- Set clear expectations, provide guidance, and empower team members to excel in their roles.
- Mentor and develop talent, identifying opportunities for skill enhancement and career growth.
Process Optimization:
- Identify areas for process improvement and implement best practices to enhance efficiency.
- Streamline workflows, reduce bottlenecks, and enhance productivity across all functions.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives to achieve operational excellence.
Financial Management:
- Work closely with the Group CEO & Group CFO to manage budgets, allocate resources, and optimize cost structures.
- Monitor financial performance, identify variances, and take corrective actions as needed.
- Ensure prudent financial decision-making aligned with business goals.
Stakeholder Relations:
- Collaborate with external partners, suppliers, and regulatory bodies to maintain positive relationships.
- Represent the company at industry forums, conferences, and networking events.
- Uphold the company’s reputation and commitment to sustainability.
Key dimensions of the role
- Drive operational excellence
- Streamline processes
- Ensure seamless execution of Green Resources’ strategic initiatives including Capital Expansion Programs
- Optimize efficiency and foster collaborative and results driven culture
- Oversee day-to-day operations
Skills and experience
- 8+ years or more experience as a senior role in Agribusiness production and/or manufacturing and/or engineering business.
- Demonstrable experience in Industrial (Forest Processing) knowledge.
- In-depth knowledge of forestry practices, policies, and procedures.
- Proven ability to lead and inspire teams, driving performance and fostering a results-oriented culture.
- Strategic thinker with a history of converting vision into actionable plans.
- Possesses strong business acumen, with expertise in financial literacy and a deep understanding of market dynamics.
- Ability to balance short-term operational needs with long-term strategic goals.
- Demonstrate excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Exhibits a collaborative mindset, working effectively with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders.
Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of colour are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Millar Cameron, we are dedicated to supporting our Clients in building and supporting diverse and inclusive workplaces and culture, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.
Since 2007 Millar Cameron has specialised in sourcing leadership and keyperson talent across a number of industries, including agribusiness, international development, industrial, consumer, financial and professional services, private equity, and technology, media and telecommunications. Our mission and purpose is to positively contribute to the development of Africa, and other emerging markets, through the provision of people.