Zaynudeen Shafique Benefeld
Regional Operations Manager – Coastal
Cape Town
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven operations leader with over 15 years of experience driving growth, operational excellence, and customer-centric transformation in the financial services and automotive sectors. Recognized for leading large-scale regional operations across Eastern Cape, Western Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal, delivering multimillion-rand portfolio growth, and inspiring high-performance teams. Adept at building strategic partnerships, driving compliance, and leveraging data-driven insights to achieve consistent outperformance.
Proven track record in enhancing sales performance through lean methodologies, Six Sigma, and Kaizen. Skilled in building strong client relationships and leading high-performance teams to deliver exceptional customer service. Adept at market analysis and competitive intelligence to drive business growth and maintain a competitive edge. Career goals include leveraging advanced product knowledge and strategic networking to expand market presence and foster long-term business development.
Enthusiastic sales professional with team leadership experience. Excels at telesales and closing high-profile sales leads. Knowledgeable about using benefits and incentives to boost outcomes. Driven individual with sales and customer service background. Demonstrates marketing and sales reporting expertise. Skilled in upselling and top-quality production promotion. Motivated Sales Operations Team Leader with knack for streamlining processes and enhancing team performance. Demonstrates strong leadership in managing sales operations, ensuring smooth workflow and achieving targets. Skilled in data analysis, CRM systems, and cross-functional collaboration to drive sales initiatives.
Brings strategic insights and practical solutions to improve sales efficiency and boost revenue.
Hands-on Regional Operations Manager with exceptional gifts in budgetary and cost control. Adaptable and versatile to oversee multiple locations. Exceptionally skilled at motivating location managers to perform duties and achieve highest potential.
Positive Regional Operations Manager with an optimistic attitude toward striving to be the best in terms of performance and customer satisfaction. Proficient at carrying out regular operational reviews and leading regional management teams. Knowledge of budgeting, succession planning and performance management.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
2022
2022
years of post-secondary education
2
2
Languages
Work History
Regional Operations Manager – Coastal
Volkswagen Financial Services South Africa
09.2025 - Current
- Directed operational performance across Eastern Cape, Western Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal, optimising processes for compliance and efficiency.
- Managedvmultimillion-rand portfolios, delivering sustained revenue growth and improved profitability.
- Built strategic dealer and client partnerships to increase regional penetration and service excellence.
- Implemented lean methodologies and process improvements to reduce turnaround times and improve customer satisfaction.
- Led and developed regional managers and high-performing teams to consistently exceed targets.
- Monitored and analyzed performance data, identifying areas of improvement and developing corrective action plans.
- Developed processes to save on costs and prevent losses.
- Increased employee retention by implementing comprehensive training programs and opportunities for advancement.
- Devised strategic plans focused on long-term growth while addressing immediate operational challenges.
- Established performance goals for each department, monitoring progress towards objectives on a regular basis.
- Analyzed performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and implement necessary changes.
- Collaborated with sales teams to develop strategies for increasing market share and revenue growth.
- Managed a team of diverse employees, fostering a positive work environment that encouraged collaboration and professional growth.
- Conducted regular audits of operational procedures to ensure compliance with industry regulations and company policies.
- Enforced compliance with local, state and federal regulations and company standards.
- Led cross-functional teams in pursuing process improvement projects, resulting in increased productivity across departments.
- Led weekly meetings with regional staff to review progress, address challenges and drive timely task completion.
- Enhanced regional branch performance by implementing proven management processes to increase revenue.
- Developed and executed strategic plans to expand company's footprint in underperforming markets.
- Coordinated with other regional managers to share best practices, streamline processes, and improve overall organizational effectiveness.
- Enhanced communication and collaboration between regional teams, resulting in more cohesive and effective operations.
- Oversaw successful integration of newly acquired businesses into region's operations.
- Led training and development initiatives, enhancing skills and competencies of regional staff.
- Trained and guided team members to maintain high productivity and performance metrics.
Sales Operations Team Leader
Volkswagen Financial Services South Africa
Cape Town, Western Cape
05.2019 - 08.2025
- Oversee all sales operations for Volkswagen Financial Services across the Western Cape and Eastern Cape Regions, ensuring consistent performance, and achieving sales targets.
- Develop and implement effective strategies to enhance sales performance, increase market share, and achieve business growth goals.
- Continuously assess market trends and adjust strategies to capitalize on new opportunities and address emerging challenges.
- Ensure a steady pipeline of new business by building strong relationships with key clients, including Volkswagen, Audi NTT Motor Group, NMI Motor Group, and independent dealerships.
- Manage a financial portfolio of R200 million per month, balancing capital allocations to ensure profitability and growth.
- Work closely with dealership Finance & Insurance (F&I) Managers to ensure the smooth structuring and approval of vehicle financing deals.
- Negotiate competitive and profitable financing terms, ensuring all deals comply with company policies, financial regulations, and industry standards.
- Lead, mentor, and coach the sales team and contact centre marketers to achieve targets, improve performance, and drive industry excellence.
- Foster a high-performance culture with clear objectives, regular feedback, and ongoing professional development.
- Ensure the team delivers exceptional customer service, meeting client expectations and best practices.
- Build long-term customer relationships by addressing concerns and maintaining open communication.
- Analyse financial data to optimize profitability, ensure accurate pricing, and mitigate risks.
- Monitor financial metrics to maximize revenue and minimize risk exposure.
- Maintain compliance with key financial regulations such as FICA, FAIS, and NCA to uphold the financial integrity of the company and meet legal requirements.
- Ensure that all financial practices, including deal structuring, are carried out in strict accordance with internal and external compliance frameworks.
- Monitor market trends, competitors, and regulations to inform business strategies and pricing decisions.
- Adjust pricing strategies to stay competitive in changing market conditions.
- Enhance turnaround times for deal approvals and funding to ensure a seamless customer experience.
- Identify and implement process improvements to boost operational efficiency and accuracy. Use data analytics and KPIs to track sales performance, identify trends, and drive improvements.
- Regularly assess team performance and operational metrics to refine strategies and foster continuous improvement.
- Prepare detailed reports for senior management, highlighting performance, growth opportunities, and market share expansion strategies.
- Stay updated on industry trends, competitors, and regulations to keep Volkswagen Financial Services competitive.
- Build relationships with influencers, clients, and stakeholders to create new business opportunities and enhance market presence.
- Exceeded sales targets by motivating team members and providing ongoing coaching.
- Mentored junior team members, fostering a positive work environment that encouraged professional growth.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction through proactive problem-solving and consistent followup.
- Developed strong relationships with key clients, resulting in increased repeat business.
- Established effective communication channels within the team, ensuring timely updates on market trends and competitor activities.
- Coordinated with internal stakeholders during product development phases to ensure smooth transition into the sales process.
- Streamlined sales processes to improve efficiency and productivity within the team.
- Led targeted marketing campaigns to boost brand awareness and generate qualified leads for the sales pipeline.
Deal Maker
Volkswagen Financial Services South Africa
09.2014 - 04.2019
- Validated, processed, and finalized vehicle finance deals, ensuring all contracts were accurately generated and payments were made on time.
- Ensured all necessary documentation and contract information were properly completed and adhered to company standards.
- Managed an assigned dealer portfolio, allocating dealers to specific categories based on DIC (Dealer Incentive Commission) negotiations.
- Maintained high deal conversion rates by proactively following up on leads and ensuring timely deal closures.
- Negotiated and aligned financing rates with DIC standards to ensure profitability while maintaining balanced capital return percentages.
- Worked closely with dealers to ensure rates were competitive, profitable, and aligned with company goals.
- Streamlined deal approval processes to enhance turnaround times, ensuring deals were processed quickly while maintaining accuracy.
- Contributed to operational efficiency improvements that resulted in increased market share and a more agile sales cycle.
- Provided clients with detailed guidance on available product offerings, compliance requirements, and various financing options.
- Delivered excellent customer service by addressing client queries and ensuring their needs were met promptly and professionally.
- Worked closely with internal teams, including sales, operations, and customer service, to ensure smooth communication and alignment.
- Actively contributed to team performance improvement initiatives and collaborated on cross-functional projects to optimize overall operations.
- Monitored and reported on key performance indicators (KPIs), ensuring targets were met and identifying areas for improvement.
- Analysed customer feedback and deal trends to recommend strategic changes to enhance service delivery and customer satisfaction.
- Ensured all deals and transactions complied with financial regulations and internal company policies.
- Identified potential risks in deal structures and communicated remedies to senior management to mitigate any adverse impact on the business.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
Sales Enablement Lead
Standard Bank of South Africa
09.2012 - 09.2014
- Secured new business opportunities, aligning pricing and risk to maximize profitability.
- Assessed market dynamics and proposed tailored financial solutions to enhance the bank's market share.
- Collaborated with the Business Development Officer and Line Managers to negotiate competitive deals for dealers.
- Structured deals that balanced profitability and client needs while ensuring favourable terms.
- Assisted F&I Managers with deal submissions and approval processes, ensuring competitive rates and profitability.
- Implemented commission structures to secure new business and drive deal success.
- Regularly called dealers with the Business Development Officer to build strong relationships with F&I Managers.
- Fostered long-term partnerships by offering tailored financial solutions.
- Led the team in the absence of the Manager, enforcing business decisions on DIC rates and ensuring adherence to policies.
- Provided team support and promoted high performance.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of financial products and services to support stakeholders.
- Conducted training to ensure the team was informed of product offerings and updates.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to successfully deliver comprehensive solutions for clients.
- Evaluated client needs and expectations, establishing clear goals for each consulting engagement.
- Developed innovative strategies for clients, resulting in increased revenue and business growth.
- Assisted clients in navigating complex industry challenges with strategic recommendations.
- Liaised with customers, management, and sales team to better understand customer needs and recommend appropriate solutions.
- Managed client relationships through regular check-ins and updates on project progress.
Vehicle and Asset Finance Operations Consultant
Standard Bank of South Africa
05.2010 - 09.2012
- Processed, captured, and verified all aspects of vehicle and asset finance contracts, ensuring that all documentation was accurate and compliant with company policies and regulatory standards.
- Oversaw the smooth execution of contracts, ensuring that all terms, conditions, and requirements were met before finalizing deals.
- Managed the contract generation process to ensure fast and efficient turnaround times in alignment with service level agreements (SLAs).
- Worked to streamline internal processes, reduce delays, and maintain high-quality service standards across all stages of the value chain.
- Acted as a key liaison between various internal and external stakeholders, including customers, dealerships, and the finance team.
- Effectively communicated contract verdicts, decisions, and relevant information to all stakeholders in a clear and timely manner.
- Provided ongoing training and support to junior consultants to enhance their understanding of contract processes and improve overall team performance.
- Built and maintained strong, long-term relationships with both individual customers and business clients, ensuring satisfaction and fostering loyalty.
- Provided exceptional banking support and acted as a trusted advisor to clients regarding their vehicle and asset financing needs.
- Worked closely with businesses to offer tailored solutions that met their unique financial requirements, contributing to overall business growth.
- Promoted and marketed vehicle and asset finance products to potential and existing customers, ensuring alignment with their needs and financial capabilities.
- Proactively cross-sold additional services and products, such as insurance and extended warranties, based on customer profiles and financial assessments.
- Worked with customers to identify financial needs and provide them with comprehensive financial solutions.
- Conducted thorough affordability and repayment assessments in collaboration with customers and dealerships to ensure that financing options were realistic and aligned with the customers' financial situations.
- Evaluated income, expenses, and credit history to determine appropriate loan amounts and repayment terms.
- Ensured that all calculations were accurate and compliant with regulatory standards.
- Identified potential risks within vehicle and asset finance deals and communicated solutions or mitigation strategies to relevant parties.
- Worked closely with the risk management team to ensure compliance with all financial regulations and internal company policies.
- Proactively addressed any issues that could affect profitability or the customer experience, aiming to minimize financial and operational risks.
- Delivered outstanding customer service throughout the finance process, maintaining a positive, professional, and customer-centric approach.
- Provided assistance and guidance to customers, ensuring they were fully informed about their options, terms, and the implications of their financial decisions.
- Strived to exceed customer expectations at every touchpoint, ensuring long-term satisfaction and repeat business.
- Increased revenue streams by identifying new business opportunities and developing innovative solutions for clients.
- Adhered to identification guidelines, regulations, and compliance.
- Produced monthly, quarterly and annual analysis, statistics and metrics.
- Developed various business models to forecast operating expenses and revenue based on market conditions.
- Managed complex projects from inception through completion, consistently delivering results on time and within budget constraints.
- Supported the development of long-term financial plans, aligning organizational goals with sustainable growth strategies.
Education
Master of Business Administration (MBA) - Business
MANCOSA
Post Graduate Diploma - Business Administration and Management
MANCOSA
Bachelor Decree (Cum Laude) - Business Administration
MANCOSA
Matric -
Mondeor High
Skills
Lean Methodologies
Personal Information
- Date of birth: 1985-10-12
- Nationality: South African
- Driving Licence: Code 8
- Marital status: Married
References
Available on request
Hobbies and interests
- Rugby
- Football
- DJ and Music Production including Corporate Events
Professional Highlights
- Volkswagen Financial Services, Exceeded budget by R10 million, reaching R30 million in the first month (2018-09-01)., Mentored a regional dealership to 4th place provincially, securing a record month., Wrote the highest-grossing deal of R37,250,000 in just 3 months (2018-12-01), setting a new record., Secured a R47 million deal total (2015-09-01), surpassing the target by R17 million, earning Team Leader appointment for displaying outstanding performance. with a 105% success rate, outpacing the team's 77.78%., Elevated to 2IC for consistently exceeding target by R1.25 million.
- Awards: 'Future Star Award' (2016), 'Deal Maker of the Year' (2017), 'Above and Beyond Award' (2018) as well as the National Leadership Award (2022)
- Standard Bank, Earned True Blue Accolades for exceptional service delivery and fast-tracked to the asset finance division.
Languages
6,C2,6,C2
Ethos
"Success is not merely measured by benchmarks one achieves, but by the relationships that are built, challenges overcome and integrity one upholds along the journey"
Timeline
Regional Operations Manager – Coastal
Volkswagen Financial Services South Africa
09.2025 - Current
Sales Operations Team Leader
Volkswagen Financial Services South Africa
05.2019 - 08.2025
Deal Maker
Volkswagen Financial Services South Africa
09.2014 - 04.2019
Sales Enablement Lead
Standard Bank of South Africa
09.2012 - 09.2014
Vehicle and Asset Finance Operations Consultant
Standard Bank of South Africa
05.2010 - 09.2012
Post Graduate Diploma - Business Administration and Management
MANCOSA
Bachelor Decree (Cum Laude) - Business Administration
MANCOSA
Matric -
Mondeor High
Master of Business Administration (MBA) - Business
MANCOSA