Technical Operations Manager

My Client is seeking a hands-on and technically strong Technical Operations Manager to take full ownership of their workshop, fleet maintenance, and technical operations.
The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the smooth, independent running of the technical division, while maintaining high standards, managing a technical team, and continuously improving systems and processes.
The role requires a balance of strong technical ability, operational leadership, and problem-solving skills, with direct involvement in diagnostics, repairs, and fleet reliability management.

• Take full ownership of daily workshop and technical operations
• Manage, lead, and develop a team of technicians
• Set KPIs, performance standards, and productivity targets
• Ensure efficient operations with minimal senior management intervention
• Oversee repairs, servicing, and diagnostics of electric vehicles
• Manage battery systems, faults, and charging/swapping infrastructure
• Perform and oversee complex technical fault finding and escalations
• Maintain high-quality control standards across all technical work
• Act as primary liaison for external technical suppliers and support partners
• Diagnose electrical, firmware, and controller-related issues
• Develop and maintain SOPs, workflows, and technical documentation
• Ensure accurate job cards, service records, and reporting systems
• Oversee fleet uptime, reliability, and maintenance scheduling
• Monitor breakdown trends and implement preventative strategies
• Manage inventory including spare parts, tools, and battery stock
• Conduct stock control, stocktakes, and asset tracking
• Coordinate with suppliers and manage procurement requirements
• Implement reporting systems for fleet performance and technician output
• Provide weekly and monthly operational and technical reports
• Support customer and internal technical escalations
• Identify inefficiencies and implement continuous improvements
• Improve systems, processes, and operational scalability
• Grade 12 (Matric)
• Relevant technical qualification (Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, or similar)
• Strong hands-on technical background in mechanical or electrical systems
• Proven experience in workshop or technical operations management

• Minimum 5+ years' experience in a technical or workshop environment
• At least 2-3 years in a supervisory or management role
• Strong hands-on experience with fault finding and repairs
• Experience working with electrical systems, batteries, or fleet equipment advantageous
• Experience in managing technicians and operational workflows
• Strong technical and diagnostic ability (hands-on required)
• Leadership and team management skills
• High attention to detail and quality standards
• Problem-solving and critical thinking ability
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment
• Strong organisational and planning skills
• Ability to build structure in an unstructured environment
• Good communication skills (including supplier and technical liaison)
• Comfortable working under pressure and shifting priorities
• Strong sense of ownership and accountability