Head of Business Unit- Guyana
Summary
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To effectively manage departmental heads on overall direction, coordination, and evaluation, thereby increasing profitability within the business unit.
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To take the lead in the development of new business opportunities that support the organisation’s overall growth strategy and identify potential sales leads in new markets.
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To contribute as part of the Senior Executive Team in strategic decision-making.
Location
The position will be based at the Guyana Head Office.
Dimensions
The Head of Business Unit (HOBU) will report to the Chief Operating Officer and will be supported by functional line managers in the performance of duties, having regard for the interests of shareholders, customers, employees, and other stakeholders.
Responsibilities
1. Resource and Financial Management
a) Account for the effective use of the business unit’s resources, ensuring that the unit operates within its approved financial budget (annual/quarterly/monthly), including identifying opportunities for cost improvements and incorporating them into the strategic programme of the business unit.
b) Monitor the progress of the unit’s performance against its budget and provide guidance and direction for continuous improvement.
c) Implement appropriate actions to eliminate budget variances and ensure all financial projections are completed, including planning for ongoing operational needs such as technology, facilities, and equipment.
d) Ensure adequate financial records and internal controls are maintained to support accurate preparation of financial statements, including working with the Finance department to obtain annual in-depth financial analysis and promptly address financial concerns.
e) Ensure the business unit operates in accordance with all applicable local and regional laws.
f) Address emergencies such as breaches of security or company policy promptly, emphasise prevention through training and inspection, and implement adequate preventative measures.
2. Strategic Management
a) Execute policies and plans determined by the regional leadership team and represent the business unit on matters relating to policies and execution of plans, including responsibility for measuring effectiveness of internal and external processes.
b) Collaborate with the team to develop and implement operational infrastructure plans for systems, processes, and personnel to support growth objectives.
c) Identify opportunities for improvement within manufacturing processes and develop compatible improvement plans in conjunction with operations leadership, including monitoring implementation progress.
3. Retail and Trade Sales
a) Develop new opportunities in both existing and new markets, including implementing strategies to improve sales performance and identifying opportunities for expansion. Conduct regular customer visits and ensure effective distribution and marketing of products.
b) Oversee overall customer experience and monitor On Time In Full (OTIF), satisfaction, and sales growth results.
c) Assist with sales forecasting and demand planning using the Sales Operations Planning (SOP) tool.
d) Provide budget figures for sales volume by market and product type, monitor performance, report significant variances to executive leadership, and submit budget revisions where necessary.
e) Develop comprehensive knowledge of market and industry trends, competitors, and customer strategies.
f) Prepare for and attend exhibitions, conferences, meetings, and promotional opportunities at local, regional, and national levels.
g) Maintain effective communication with customers at all times.
4. Control Environment, Procedures, and Systems
a) Work with the Regional Finance Team to ensure appropriate control frameworks are implemented and effective in mitigating business risk and maintaining inventory accuracy.
b) Implement and maintain delegated authority policies and procedures, ensuring they are tailored to the business unit and that authority levels and approval structures remain current.
5. Communication
a) Present clear and timely reports and proposals to the Board of Directors as required.
b) Ensure effective mechanisms exist for professional advice and support to department managers.
6. Public and Customer Relations
a) Ensure effective relationships are established with the press and media and that public relations are handled professionally and courteously.
b) Represent the business unit publicly when necessary and foster strong working relationships with businesses connected to the wholesale or commercial use of company products.
7. People Management
a) Plan and conduct staff meetings to ensure compliance with established practices, implement new policies, and communicate changes to standards.
b) Monitor employee performance to ensure adherence to policies and procedures.
c) Manage and motivate staff to maintain productivity and efficiency while fostering positive employee morale and encouraging initiative to improve operations, reduce costs, and enhance service quality.
d) Conduct performance appraisals in accordance with company procedures, ensuring ongoing reviews and supporting employee development and advancement where possible.
e) Cascade yearly Management by Objectives (MBOs) to direct reports using SMART principles and in accordance with Board requirements.
f) Implement productivity and quality metrics and incentive programmes designed to minimise costs and enhance efficiency.
g) Design and implement organisational performance measures and models that support current and future operational needs.
Qualifications / Experience
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A Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Administration, or Marketing with at least eight (8) years of experience in a business leadership role; OR
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A Master’s Degree in Business, Administration, or Marketing with at least four (4) years of experience in a business leadership role.
Skills and Competencies
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Proven track record of success in strategic sales and marketing functions and familiarity with relevant business technologies and innovations.
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Knowledge and experience within the paint or related manufacturing industry.
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Experience in planning, budgeting, and forecasting.
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Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively at all organisational levels.
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Ability to build and maintain positive working relationships.
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High level of creativity, initiative, and sound judgement.
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Ability to work independently while maintaining strong organisational and hands-on management skills.
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Ability to motivate teams and drive employee engagement.
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Strong time management skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects and meetings simultaneously.
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Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
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Knowledge of ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems and auditing practices.
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