AECI Industrial Chemicals
Umbogintwini
Purpose of the Job:
– Overseeing the operations of the Foundry and Timber Plant based in Umbogintwini
– Successful management of people, productivity, quality control, safety, environmental compliance and risk management
Job Summary
- Employer: AECI Chemicals
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Operations Management
- Closing Date: 2026-10-31
Key Responsibilities
- Implement, improve and sustain processes to manage plant declared as a Major Hazardous Installation – achieving safe and reliable operations.
- Accountable for legal and environmental compliance.
- Implement, improve and sustain all systems, processes, standards to responsibly lead a world class manufacturing facility.
- Lead and direct Sulphur Umbogintwini Team and other stakeholders.
- Embed quality standards such as ISO 9001; ISO 140001 & ISO 45001.
- Accountable for proactive and responsible plant asset life cycle following best practice and standards.
- Proactive and responsible management of plant capital requirement expenditure and completion of capital expenditure applications responsible for operational performance of the plant
- Drive and embed operational excellence processes and initiatives across the plant.
- Lead all productivity efficiency initiatives across the plant.
- Responsible for driving continuous improvement initiatives.
- Improve and embed financial stewardship including but not limited to fixed cost.
- Accountable for asset and plant development, maintenance and process.
- Accountable for people development, competency and talent management.
Requirements
- Operations Management Qualification or Degree in Chemical Engineering or National Diploma / BTech Management Qualification will be an advantage.
- Previous experience in a chemical plant. Previous experience with Resin operations will be an advantage.
- Previous management experience (Operations an advantage).
- Previous experience with critical Manufacturing Excellence processes will be an advantage
How to Apply
REF Code: 2186
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications are typically required for an Operations Manager role in Botswana?
Most employers in Botswana require a bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field. Professional certifications such as PMP, Six Sigma, or local equivalents from BIDPA or Botswana Accountancy College strengthen your application significantly.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of an Operations Manager in the chemicals sector?
You will oversee production schedules, ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations, manage supply chain logistics, and coordinate with cross-functional teams. Daily tasks include monitoring operational KPIs, resolving production bottlenecks, and liaising with regulatory bodies like BOBS and the Department of Environmental Affairs.
How does workplace culture in Botswana typically affect management roles?
Botswana's workplace culture values respect for hierarchy, collaborative decision-making, and strong relationships with employees and stakeholders. As a manager, you will be expected to balance formal authority with consultative leadership, participate in community engagement, and navigate both Setswana cultural norms and corporate governance standards.
What career progression opportunities exist for Operations Managers in Botswana?
With proven performance, you can advance to Regional Operations Director, General Manager, or executive roles within multinational corporations. Some professionals transition into consulting or establish their own logistics and operations firms, leveraging experience gained with established companies like AECI.
What benefits are typically included in full-time management positions in Botswana?
Standard packages usually include medical aid coverage, pension contributions often aligned with BPOPF requirements, annual leave of 15-25 days, and sometimes housing or transport allowances. Multinational employers typically offer more comprehensive benefits than local SMEs, including performance bonuses and professional development funding.
How should I apply for an Operations Manager position, and what do Botswana employers prioritize?
Submit applications through company career portals, local job boards like Botswana Jobs, or recruitment agencies such as HRMC and Careerpool Botswana. Employers prioritize candidates with demonstrable local industry experience, strong references from previous Botswana-based roles, and familiarity with regional regulatory frameworks and supply chain networks.
