Riaan Jonker

Accomplished business and operations manager focused on service delivery with 30 years of diverse industry experience, including construction, workforce/recruitment, FMCG retail distribution, and mining services. Adept at leading companies through financial challenges, implementing change management and lean principles, and leveraging technology and innovation. Skilled in leading small and large teams, single-site and multi-site operations, and maintaining an outstanding safety management track record.

National Operations Manager

SGS Australia, Geochem, Perth Airport

May 2018 – Present

As a Regional Operations Manager and later National Operations Manager at SGS Australia, I played a pivotal role in driving business performance, managing client relationships, leading key projects and contributing to the company's overall growth. I guide my team by encouraging individual skills, enabling them to initiative and nurturing a feeling of accountability.

Achievements:

• Promoted from Project Manager Finance to Regional Operational Manager of Western Australia within 10 weeks.
• Transformed loss-making branches into profitable businesses by optimizing cost reductions, labour efficiency, and process flows. Renegotiation of contract terms with client to create a win-win scenario for all. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute business strategy as a part of the Geochem Senior Management team, overseeing two commercial and eight onsite laboratories.
• Manage key client relationships, negotiate new laboratory agreements, and maintain existing contracts for renewals.
• Lead multiple projects to improve business efficiency across safety, production, and financial performance.
• Establish budgets and conduct monthly financial reviews for remote sites, implementing financial management tools and cost allocation models.
• Develop laboratory managers' skills to understand and manage their P&L statements.
• Lead the Graduate program, fostering the growth of future leaders.
• Manage procurement for laboratory consumables and equipment.
• Oversee recruitment and industrial relations management.
• Resolve queries in a timely and efficient manner.

It's Logic Pty Ltd | May 2016 - May 2018

Founder & Director

• Founded and successfully established the company, specializing in eco-friendly and efficient lightweight walling and façade solutions.

• Provide strategic businesses direction, marketing plan, and operations management, achieving projected revenues of AU$1.5 million for FY2018.

• Implemented robust project management framework and led business development, securing significant contracts such as the KPMG building facades and Johannesburg CBD projects.

• Maintained strict cash flow control, lean inventory, and debtor management to meet contractual obligations.

Capital Africa (Recruitment & Staff Placements) | Oct 2012 - Apr 2016

General Manager (Dec 2013 – May 2016) | 

Operations & Administration Manager (Oct 2012 – Dec 2013)

• Led the turnaround of an underperforming branch, resulting in a net contribution of AU$2.1 million (PBIT) from previous losses and revenue growth to AU$60 million.

• Re-established key client relationships mobilized major contracts, and managed Opex/Capex budgets with a focus on cost reduction and labour utilization.

• Implemented a financial framework that mitigated risk, improved compliance, and increased profit margins through workforce and labour agreement negotiations.

• Introduced innovative technology solutions, such as tablet-based systems and online recruitment portals, to streamline processes and capitalize on market opportunities.

• Recruited and led a team of 35 professionals across Operations, Recruitment, Payroll, Site Agents, and Sales Agents.

Freelance Management Consultant | Apr 2012 - Oct 2012

• Consulted for Agri Invest Feeds, optimizing management systems, staff management, and process improvements, resulting in increased output from 600 tons/m to 920 tons/m.

Tarisiro Mining | Jun 2010 - Feb 2012

Chief Operating Officer

• Spearheaded the start-up of the mining business in Southern Africa, managing all aspects of operations.

• Successfully established two new mines and imported earthmoving equipment from South Africa to Zimbabwe, with a budget of US$10 million.

• Implemented world-class safety management culture and managed a workforce of over 300+ employees.

Central Rand Gold (Pty) Ltd | Feb 2007 – May 2010

Risk and Loss Control Manager

• Developed and implemented an enterprise-wide risk management program, loss control strategies, and emergency response plans for the mining operation.

• Led investigations into accidents, incidents, and near-misses, implementing corrective actions and ensuring regulatory compliance.

• Managed a team of risk and loss control professionals and fostered relationships with external stakeholders.

Chubb Electronics Security & Armed Response | Jun 2003 – Jan 2007

National Projects and Business Improvement Manager

• Drove operational efficiency, enhanced customer experience, and increased profitability through national project initiatives and business improvement strategies.

• Managed project risks conducted process reviews, and prepared reports on project progress for senior management.

• Ensured compliance with laws, regulations, and company policies.

Operations Manager

Clicks Distribution Centre, Oct 2001- Jun 2003

As an Operations Manager at Clicks Distribution Centre, I successfully led a team to increase productivity, reduce shrinkage, and manage a wide range of responsibilities in a fast-paced environment feeding retail operations consistent of 328 stores in Gauteng.

Achievements:

• Boosted productivity by 55% in order picking.
• Reduced shrinkage from R12M to R2M per annum.

Key Responsibilities:

• Directed daily operations, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness across finance, admin, inventory, loss control, and inbound operations.
• Managed and coached a large team to achieve company goals and objectives.
• Developed and executed operational strategies in alignment with company vision.
• Monitored operational performance, taking corrective action as needed.
• Ensured compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and policies.
• Fostered strong relationships with key stakeholders.
• Continually improved processes to enhance operational efficiency.

Risk and Loss Control Manager

Cadbury, Feb 2000- Oct 2001

In this role, I developed and implemented an enterprise-wide risk management program, focusing on the distribution of food and beverage products.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to create loss control strategies.
• Led investigations and implemented corrective actions for accidents and incidents.
• Developed a comprehensive emergency response plan.
• Ensured compliance with regulations and contractual requirements.
• Provided employee training on risk management and loss control best practices.
• Managed a team of risk and loss control professionals.
• Conducted regular audits to assess program effectiveness and identify improvements.

Head of Security (Security Manager)

Rex Consolidated, Aug 1996- Sept 1999

As Head of Security, I developed and implemented a security program to manage potential risks related to mining operations, working closely with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

• Developed security strategies, policies, and procedures.
• Managed a team responsible for physical security, access control, and CCTV monitoring.
• Conducted regular risk assessments and implemented mitigation strategies.
• Investigated security incidents and implemented corrective actions.
• Created an emergency response plan, including incident response and crisis management.
• Collaborated with regulatory agencies and law enforcement to ensure compliance.
• Trained employees on security best practices and procedures.
• Managed the budget for the security function, maintaining cost control.

Counterintelligence Officer

South Africa National Defence Force, 

Jan 1990- Aug 1996

Advance Diploma in Business