Peter Deacon

Strategically minded executive with 20+ years’ experience leading operations across manufacturing, FMCG, supply chain, and logistics in Africa and EMEA. Proven track record managing 100–700+ staff and multi-million Rand budgets, with expertise in greenfield projects, multidepartment business management, and operational transformation. Skilled in driving growth, improving margins, integrating technology, and leading high-performing teams.

Adept at negotiation, crisis management, and delivering measurable business outcomes.

CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER (COO) - FREEDOM WON

(2024-08)

• Lead Africa’s largest lithium battery manufacturer, producing 500MWh per annum for residential, commercial, and industrial markets.
• Oversee operations for 350 employees, including 8 direct reports, across SHEQ, inventory & warehouse management, facilities (45,000 m²), technical support, field services, and RMA processes.
• Drive operational efficiency, cost optimization, and profit margin improvement while maintaining compliance with industry standards and safety regulations.
• Implement scalable processes for supply chain, manufacturing, and customer service, supporting rapid business growth and digital integration initiatives.
• Negotiate supplier contracts and market agreements across multiple regions, achieving cost reductions and improved delivery timelines.
• Lead crisis management and problem-solving efforts during operational disruptions, ensuring continuity of supply and minimal downtime [NEW].
• Develop and mentor high-performing leadership teams, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR - MEA – VERTIV

(2022-05 - 2024-07)

• Directed MEA operations for a global data center and critical infrastructure company (31,000 employees across 130 countries).
• Optimized supply chain, logistics, warehousing, and sales operations across Africa, achieving world-class operational performance.
• Led sourcing strategy and supply chain resilience initiatives to reduce logistical costs and lead times across the continent.
• Implemented advanced manufacturing technologies and digital tools to improve delivery performance, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency.
• Partnered with cross-functional teams to develop strategic plans, drive cost reduction, and standardize processes.
• Directed crisis response planning and resolution for operational risks across MEA.

GENERAL MANAGER - ANB GROUP

(2020-01 - 2022-02)

• Managed 700 employees across processing plants, packhouses, and warehousing (including cold storage), overseeing all manufacturing operations, HR, finance, IT, and logistics.
• Oversaw a greenfield site, including IT infrastructure, quality/food safety, maintenance/projects, and risk management.
• Implemented operational efficiency and process optimization programs to improve productivity, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction.
• Negotiated supplier and customer agreements, navigating complex agricultural market dynamics across South Africa.
• Mentored direct reports and implemented leadership development programs to strengthen succession pipelines

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR AFRICA - FAGERHULT GROUP (LIGHTING INNOVATIONS AFRICA)

(2016-06 - 2019-12)

• Oversaw daily operations for 130 employees across manufacturing, supply chain, HR, and sales in Africa.
• Directed the design, commissioning, and maintenance of a world-class LED light engine manufacturing facility, first of its kind in South Africa.
• Implemented process improvements, cost reduction, and performance management programs, achieving operational excellence.
• Strengthened customer relationships and market penetration, aligning operational strategy with sales and business objectives.

OPERATIONS MANAGER - PG GROUP (SHATTERPRUFE)

(2011-11 - 2016-05)

• Managed 550 employees across glass manufacturing and warehousing on a 90,000 m² site.
• Improved delivery performance, production efficiency, and quality compliance to OEM standards.
• Implemented strategic process improvements, staff development initiatives, and graduate/management training programs.
• Enhanced customer satisfaction through quality and operational excellence.
• Resolved operational disruptions and implemented problem-solving strategies to maintain production continuity.

EXECUTIVE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM - GORDON INSTITUTE OF BUSINESS SCIENCE (GIBS) (2013 - 2013)

B-TECH DEGREE - QUALITY MANAGEMENT - NELSON MANDELA METROPOLITAN UNIVERSITY (NMMU) (2013 - 2013)

MANUFACTURING MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (2005 - 2005)

OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DIPLOMA (Bridging Subjects – RPL) (2003 - 2003)

PRODUCTION & LEADERSHIP TRAINING - HOWE LEATHER (1999 - 1999)