General Manager - Construction - East Africa at Achyutam

Job Summary

• We are seeking an experienced and results-driven General Manager to oversee the overall business operations, sales, financial performance, and strategic growth of the organisation. The role involves managing multiple departments, driving revenue and profitability, improving operational efficiency, strengthening customer relationships, and ensuring effective financial and risk management. Candidates with experience in building materials, hardware, construction supplies, wholesale distribution, or retail trading will be preferred.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement business strategies in coordination with the CEO to achieve sustainable growth, profitability, and long-term business objectives.
• Oversee daily business operations and ensure effective coordination across all departments.
• Monitor business performance, establish departmental KPIs, and implement corrective measures to improve productivity and efficiency.
• Lead sales and marketing initiatives to achieve revenue targets, expand market presence, and develop new business opportunities.
• Build and maintain relationships with key customers, suppliers, distributors, and strategic business partners.
• Participate in negotiations with major clients and support customer retention and business expansion initiatives.
• Lead annual budgeting, financial planning, forecasting, and cost-control activities in coordination with the finance team.
• Monitor revenue, profitability, expenditure, and budget utilisation to ensure sound financial performance.
• Identify business and operational risks and implement appropriate internal controls and mitigation measures.
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulatory requirements, company policies, and quality standards.
• Oversee workforce planning, recruitment, employee development, succession planning, and performance management in coordination with HR.
• Lead and motivate multicultural teams, promote accountability, and foster a performance-driven work culture.
• Ensure effective utilisation of ERP systems and business software to support operational control and decision-making.
• Maintain regular communication with the CEO and senior management regarding business performance, operational challenges, and strategic priorities.
• Represent the organisation in dealings with key stakeholders and support corporate communication and approved CSR initiatives.
• Monitor health and safety standards and ensure appropriate reporting to management and the Board of Directors.

Qualifications And Experience

• Minimum 5 years of experience in a General Manager, Senior Management, or equivalent leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of the Kenyan market, including market dynamics, customer requirements, competitor activities, supplier networks, and industry trends.
• At least 5 years of experience in a relevant industry, preferably building materials, hardware, steel, electrical supplies, construction products, wholesale distribution, or retail trading.
• Proven experience in business strategy implementation, operational management, sales growth, and profitability improvement.
• Strong understanding of budgeting, financial controls, risk management, and business reporting.
• Experience managing multiple departments and multicultural teams.
• Proficiency in business software, ERP systems, and management information tools.
• Knowledge of ISO management systems would be an added advantage.

Key Skills and Competencies

• Strong business acumen and strategic planning capabilities.
• Excellent general management and operational leadership skills.
• Sales management, business development, and customer relationship management.
• Financial planning, budgeting, and cost control.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Effective decision-making, problem-solving, and risk assessment.
• Team leadership, employee development, and performance management.
• High levels of integrity, accountability, professionalism, and attention to detail.