Operations Manager - FMCG Manufacturing Plant

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 128,000 - 192,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonus opportunities

Medical aid and retirement fund

Career advancement

Relocation assistance

Exposure to advanced manufacturing

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Operations Manager for its production facility in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. The role oversees all aspects of operations, including production planning, staffing, maintenance, and adherence to safety and quality standards in a fast-paced FMCG environment.

The successful candidate will drive lean initiatives, manage budgets, and lead a diverse team to achieve cost-efficiency and high product quality.

Qualifications

• 8-10 years of progressive experience in manufacturing operations management, with FMCG exposure.
• Experience in managing large-scale production facilities and diverse operational teams.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma).

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day manufacturing operations ensuring efficient, cost-effective production.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve productivity, quality, safety, and efficiency.
• Manage production planning and scheduling to meet demand requirements.
• Lead and develop the operations team, including supervisors, line operators, and maintenance staff.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, HACCP/ISO standards, and quality control protocols.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

ERP systems

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field

Tools

MES

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturer in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Operations Manager to oversee their production facility in Queenstown, Eastern Cape . This is a critical role responsible for ensuring the efficient, safe, and high-quality production of FMCG products. We are looking for a strategic leader with a strong background in manufacturing operations, supply chain, and quality management within the FMCG industry. The ideal candidate will possess excellent leadership qualities, a deep understanding of lean manufacturing principles, and a proven ability to drive operational excellence and continuous improvement. You will manage all aspects of the plant's operations, including production planning, staffing, resource allocation, maintenance, and adherence to stringent safety and quality standards. This position is crucial for maintaining our client's production output, cost-efficiency, and product quality, thereby sustaining their market position. The role requires a hands-on approach and a commitment to operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all day-to-day manufacturing operations, ensuring efficient and cost-effective production in line with targets.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to enhance productivity, quality, safety, and efficiency.
• Manage the production planning and scheduling process to meet demand requirements.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the operations team, including production supervisors, line operators, and maintenance staff.
• Ensure strict adherence to all safety regulations, environmental standards, and quality control protocols (e.g., HACCP, ISO).
• Implement and champion lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Manage the plant's budget, controlling costs related to labor, materials, and overheads.
• Oversee equipment maintenance and repair programs to minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with supply chain, procurement, and logistics departments to ensure seamless material flow and finished goods dispatch.
• Drive a culture of safety, quality, and performance excellence within the manufacturing facility.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in manufacturing operations management, with a significant portion in the FMCG sector .
• Demonstrated experience in managing large-scale production facilities and diverse operational teams.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Proven ability to manage budgets and control operational costs effectively.
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• In-depth understanding of manufacturing processes, quality control, and safety regulations pertinent to FMCG.
• Proficiency in manufacturing execution systems (MES) or ERP systems and MS Office Suite.
• This is a critical on-site position located in Queenstown, Eastern Cape , and is not remote .
• Willingness to work flexible hours as operational demands require.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package reflecting experience and responsibilities.
• Performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement within a major FMCG company.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for the right candidate.
• Exposure to advanced manufacturing techniques and processes.
• Stable and secure employment in a vital industrial role.
• Generous annual leave.