Head of People & Operations (Senior Manager)
A newly created senior role focused on stability, continuity, and operational excellence
Johannesburg | Hybrid | Market-related salary
About Our Client
Our client is a well-established, fast-moving organisation operating in the media and content space. They have an experienced team, mature systems, and a strong culture built on collaboration, respect for institutional knowledge, and pragmatic decision-making.This is a confidential appointment for a business that values thoughtful leadership, operational stability, and long-term impact over rapid transformation.
The Role: Head of People & OperationsThis newly created senior management role exists to provide stability, coordination, and operational oversight across key support functions. The immediate priority is ensuring continuity following the departure of the HR Manager, while developing a deep understanding of existing processes, systems, and team dynamics before introducing any changes.
The role spans people operations, finance oversight, compliance, office operations, and IT support, while also contributing practical operational input into broader product and strategic discussions.
Key Responsibilities- Provide senior oversight of HR administration, recruitment support, and people processes
- Ensure continuity and stability across operations during a period of transition
- Oversee the accounts function with a focus on technical review and financial judgement (not bookkeeping)
- Manage compliance requirements and operational risk
- Oversee facilities, reception, office operations, and internal IT support within operations
- Build strong working relationships with existing teams through understanding and collaboration
- Contribute operational insight to strategic and product discussions, grounded in feasibility
- 8+ years' experience in operations, people management, or a senior support role
- Strong HR and operational management background with a stable, detail-oriented approach
- Financial acumen to review technical accounts and contribute to sound business judgement
- Proven ability to work cross-functionally and build credibility with established teams
- Comfortable leading through continuity, not disruption
- Collaborative, practical, and grounded in operational feasibility
- Able to balance strategic input with hands-on management responsibilities