Operations Excellence Manager

Placements24; O Mente; Hybrid; EUR 49,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Annual performance bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Advanced training and certifications

Career growth potential

Generous leave policy

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Operations Excellence Manager to drive continuous improvement at a manufacturing facility in Queenstown. The role focuses on Lean/Six Sigma, process optimization, and leadership to raise efficiency, productivity and quality across all processes.

You will lead strategic projects, develop KPIs, and mentor teams while working in a hybrid setup with on-site execution and remote planning. 5+ years in manufacturing CI is preferred, with Black Belt highly valued.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in operations management or continuous improvement in manufacturing.
• Black Belt or Master Black Belt certification in Lean Six Sigma is highly preferred.
• Proven track record of Lean/Six Sigma projects and measurable results.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and project management capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and implementation of operations excellence strategies (Lean, Six Sigma, etc.).
• Identify, prioritize and manage projects to improve efficiency, reduce waste and raise quality.
• Develop and track KPIs related to performance and project success.
• Facilitate workshops and training on continuous improvement tools for staff.
• Analyze operational data to identify trends and root causes.
• Collaborate with managers to integrate new processes and initiatives.
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement and empower ideas.
• Develop standardized work procedures and best practices.
• Manage change, ensure smooth transitions and stakeholder buy-in.
• Report progress, results, and challenges to senior management.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering / Operations Management / Business Administration

Tools

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a well-established manufacturing firm, is seeking an experienced Operations Excellence Manager to drive continuous improvement initiatives at their facility in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. This role is pivotal in enhancing operational efficiency, productivity, and quality across all manufacturing processes. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and process optimization, coupled with excellent leadership and change management skills. You will be responsible for identifying opportunities for improvement, developing and implementing strategic projects, and fostering a culture of operational excellence throughout the organization. This hybrid role requires on-site presence for project execution and team engagement, while allowing for some remote strategic planning and analysis. Your expertise will be crucial in maintaining our client's competitive edge and ensuring sustainable growth in the Queenstown area.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of operations excellence strategies, including Lean, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Identify, prioritize, and manage projects aimed at improving operational efficiency, reducing waste, and enhancing quality.
• Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to operational performance and project success.
• Facilitate workshops and training sessions on continuous improvement tools and techniques for staff at all levels.
• Analyze operational data to identify trends, root causes of issues, and areas for improvement.
• Collaborate with departmental managers to ensure successful integration of new processes and initiatives.
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement and empower employees to contribute ideas and solutions.
• Develop standardized work procedures and best practices across the organization.
• Manage change effectively, ensuring smooth transitions and employee buy-in.
• Report on progress, results, and challenges of operations excellence initiatives to senior management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in operations management or continuous improvement roles, preferably in manufacturing.
• Black Belt or Master Black Belt certification in Lean Six Sigma is highly preferred.
• Proven track record of successfully implementing Lean/Six Sigma projects and achieving significant results.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Excellent leadership, coaching, and change management capabilities.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools and techniques.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience working in Queenstown, Eastern Cape is an advantage.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing on-site and remote duties.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package.
• Annual performance bonus.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional certifications.
• Career growth potential within a reputable manufacturing company.
• A challenging and impactful role focused on driving improvement.
• A supportive team environment committed to excellence.
• Generous leave policy.