Open to opportunities

Rita Harris

@ritaharris

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Experienced operational manager with a strong background in education.

South Africa

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What I'm looking for

I seek a role that fosters innovation and supports continuous improvement in operations.

I am an accomplished Operational Manager with extensive experience in academic delivery and compliance management. My journey began with a solid foundation in Chemical Engineering, culminating in a PhD in progress. I have successfully supervised educational staff, ensuring quality academic programs and student performance at Crosslink Academy.

Throughout my career, I have demonstrated a commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence. My major achievements include a 30% reduction in excursions within six months and a 35% increase in efficiency through digitization transformation. I thrive in environments that challenge me to innovate and drive process improvements.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Operational Manager

Current

Crosslink Academy

Feb 2025 - Present (5 months)

Supervised lecturers and educational staff, monitoring and evaluating student performance and academic outcomes to ensure quality and effectiveness of academic programs. Oversaw administrative functions, including student admissions, records, and scheduling, while managing campus-specific responsibilities for Learner Management Systems and Instructional Technologies.

Academic Delivery Administration Quality Assurance Operational Management Education Management Health and Safety Human Resources Financial Management

Compliance Manager

OXB

Jul 2021 - Present (4 years)

Developed and managed processes, including the digitization of workflows and documentation, leading to a 35% increase in efficiency. Conducted risk assessments, HAZOP, and FMEA, and led Root Cause Analyses, resulting in a 30% reduction in excursions within six months.

Process Development Risk Assessment Hazop D P FMEA Root Cause Analysis KPI Tracking Compliance Management SOP Development Change Control

Maths Teacher

Kemnay Academy

Aug 2020 - Present (4 years 11 months)

Delivered quality learning and teaching in accordance with curriculum guidelines, developing mathematics curriculum using traditional and PBL pedagogies. Managed and organized classes, preparing pupils for examinations and contributing to school and departmental improvement plans.

Curriculum Development Online Learning Classroom Management Pupil Assessment Educational Planning Teaching Mathematics

Maths, Science and Technology Teacher

Oakhill School

Jan 2018 - Present (7 years 6 months)

Designed and implemented a Technology Syllabus focusing on skills development, including hydraulics, robotics, and coding. Delivered quality learning and teaching in Mathematics and Science, developing curriculum using traditional and PBL pedagogies.

Technology Education Curriculum Development Classroom Management Inclusive Education Mathematics Robotics Coding

Chief Invigilator

Knysna High School

May 2017 - Present (8 years 2 months)

Prepared and assisted with the setup of exam halls, ensuring compliance with SA DBE standards and requirements. Supervised candidates during exams, managed attendance registers, and collected scripts, ensuring no missing papers.

Exam Administration Compliance Student supervision Record keeping Gymnastics Coaching

Process Engineer

Sasol Technology

Jan 2012 - Present (13 years 6 months)

Conducted research and piloting on slurry phase reactors and CTR pilot plants, providing immediate technical support for process upsets and troubleshooting. Performed mass and energy balances, analyzed data, and developed new sampling methods to ensure product quality.

Risk Assessment Hazop Technical Support Data Analysis SOP Development

Programme Management

SAGF

Jun 2009 - Present (16 years 1 month)

Drove transformation in Gymnastics through project management, developing and delivering training materials for judges and coaches. Organized national and international championships, and managed finances and procurement for equipment and apparel.

Project Management Training Development Financial Management Procurement Coaching Team Management Mentorship

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Unknown

PhD, Chemical Engineering

Currently pursuing a PhD in Chemical Engineering, conducting advanced research and contributing to the field's knowledge base.

Unknown

PGCE, Further Education and Training

2018 -

Grade: with honours

Earned a Postgraduate Certificate in Education for Further Education and Training with Honours, developing expertise in educational methodologies and curriculum design.