General Manager – Distribution (Filtration)

Location: Johannesburg

Salary: Market related

Lead and transform a growing distribution business into a high-performing, data-driven operation

Is this you?

You’re a firm, grounded leader who doesn’t shy away from tough decisions. Structured, disciplined and direct in your communication, you bring calm authority in high-pressure environments. You’re not political or corporate – you focus on results. You’ve turned around underperforming teams before and know how to balance accountability with stability, earning trust while driving change.

What you’ll be doing (and why you’ll enjoy it)

You’ll take full ownership of a distribution business, stabilising operations and restoring performance. From overseeing sales, logistics, finance, and customer relationships to implementing structure, systems, and KPIs, you’ll bring order to a paper-based environment. You’ll drive process optimisation, enforce accountability, rebuild team performance, and align the business with group expectations. Alongside managing budgets and profitability, you’ll introduce reporting, digital tools, and disciplined operations – laying the foundation for sustainable growth.

Where you’ll be doing it

Our client is an established international group in the industrial distribution space, known for quality products and a strong global footprint. The local operation requires transformation, offering you the opportunity to make a visible impact while being supported by an experienced and performance-driven international leadership team. The culture is evolving towards structure, accountability, and operational excellence.

What you’ll need

You’ll bring proven experience running a distribution business or branch network, with a strong commercial track record. Your background includes sales and logistics exposure, along with hands-on leadership where you’ve made tough people decisions. You’ve successfully implemented systems, improved processes, and driven performance through data and structure. Strong interpersonal skills, resilience, and the ability to operate strategically and operationally are essential.

What you’ll get

A challenging but rewarding turnaround opportunity with real influence and visibility. You’ll have the autonomy to reshape a business, backed by an international group, with competitive remuneration aligned to your impact.

How to apply

For a confidential discussion please contact Katharina on Linkedin, (021) 035 1433 or send your CV to k.thieme-schiess@thetalentexperts.co.za – We appreciate that your CV might not be fully up to date. No problem; just send us what you have. We do respond to everyone! Just give us a few days to work through your application.

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