Technical Manager

SUMMARY:
Our Client, a fast-growing national retail & manufacturing company is seeking a dynamic Technical Manager to join their team.
This role is accountable for all technical operations across a nationwide retail network, including system installation, asset maintenance, and compliance with regulatory and brand standards. The Technical Manager ensures consistent uptime and operational excellence by leading a team responsible for store commissioning, technical service, and continuous improvement. Through strong leadership and structured processes, the role drives efficiency, compliance, and competitiveness while maintaining uniform technical and hygiene standards across all regions.

POSITION INFO:

Key Responsibilities

Technical Infrastructure and Installations

• Manage the full lifecycle of Retail store installations, including technical design, site preparation, purification setup, and commissioning.
• Improve and maintain technical standards and specifications for purification plants across factories, Retail stores, and express filling stations.
• Approve and audit contractors and installers to ensure compliance with installation procedures and brand standards.
• Oversee installation schedules to ensure timely delivery, cost control, and technical compliance.
• Work with Operations and Projects teams on feasibility studies, layout optimisation, and utility readiness.

Purification Systems and Quality Management

• Oversee configuration, operation, and optimisation of purification systems across all Retail stores and production sites.
• Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of purification technologies such as reverse osmosis, UV sterilisation, filtration, and dosing systems.
• Implement and monitor product testing protocols on a daily, weekly, and quarterly basis in line with SANS and internal standards.
• Ensure calibration and validation of meters, TDS testers, pH probes, and pressure gauges.
• Manage the Quality Control Framework to ensure microbiological, chemical, and physical compliance.

Maintenance, Servicing, and Support

• Establish and oversee a preventative maintenance programme for factories, Retail stores, and express outlets.
• Manage technical support teams and service partners for repairs, replacements, and troubleshooting.
• Maintain a complete asset register including serial numbers, installation dates, warranties, and maintenance history.
• Oversee stock control for all critical spare parts, filters, membranes, and consumables.

Product and Equipment Management

• Lead specification, testing, and approval of technical products installed across The Client’s network, including vending and filtration systems.
• Manage supplier relationships to ensure consistent quality, warranty support, and equipment innovation.
• Recommend improvements that reduce operational costs or enhance customer experience.
• Maintain and update the Technical Standards Manual for internal and franchisee use.

Compliance, Safety, and Environmental Standards

• Ensure compliance with SANS 241, Department of Water and Sanitation regulations, and municipal by‑laws for potable product production.
• Manage all Occupational Health and Safety requirements across technical operations and contractor activities.
• Lead environmental initiatives focusing on energy‑efficient equipment, waste reduction, product reuse, and responsible chemical handling.
• Conduct hygiene and quality audits across factories and Retail stores, issuing non‑conformance findings and corrective actions.

Team Leadership and Development

• Lead, coach, and develop technicians and service contractors.
• Define performance standards and training needs for technical personnel.
• Manage personnel scheduling, travel arrangements, and equipment.
• Provide on‑site training and technical guidance to franchisees and store managers.

Key Outputs and Deliverables

• All new and refurbished Retail stores installed and operational within approved timelines and cost parameters.
• Up‑to‑date and enforced Technical Standards Manual.
• Network‑wide product quality compliance.
• Preventative maintenance programme yielding reduced downtime and repair costs.
• Accurate asset management system with complete maintenance records.
• Quarterly technical and quality performance reports delivered.