Senior Manager, Operational Strategy

Placements24; Windsor Park (TN); Hybrid; USD 73,000 - 121,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 partners with a leading international manufacturing firm to recruit a Senior Manager for Operational Strategy. This role drives efficiency, productivity, and innovation across manufacturing operations, focusing on Lean, supply chain optimization and technology integration.

You will collaborate with site leadership, mentor teams, and shape the future operational capabilities in East London, Eastern Cape, delivering measurable improvements while balancing hybrid work and on-site

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related technical field.
• Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in operations management, strategic planning, or consulting, with a focus on manufacturing.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with proficiency in data analysis and modeling.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with lean manufacturing principles and project management methodologies.
• Familiarity with ERP systems and operational software.
• Ability to work in a hybrid environment, balancing remote work with on-site engagement in East London.

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine the operational strategy to align with the company's overall business objectives.
• Lead cross-functional teams in identifying and executing strategic operational improvement projects.
• Analyze operational data to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and opportunities for enhancement.
• Implement best practices in lean manufacturing, supply chain optimization, and process management.
• Develop business cases and proposals for new operational initiatives and investments.
• Collaborate with site leadership and department heads to ensure effective implementation of strategies.
• Monitor KPIs and report on operational progress and impact.
• Facilitate strategic planning sessions and workshops.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and technological advancements relevant to manufacturing operations.
• Mentor junior team members involved in operational strategy and improvement initiatives.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading international manufacturing firm with a significant presence in East London, Eastern Cape , is seeking a Senior Manager for Operational Strategy. This critical role focuses on enhancing the efficiency, productivity, and innovation of the company's manufacturing operations. The ideal candidate will possess a strong analytical toolkit, a deep understanding of manufacturing processes, and a proven ability to develop and implement strategic initiatives that drive business performance. You will lead projects aimed at optimizing supply chains, improving production workflows, and integrating new technologies. This position requires a dynamic leader capable of collaborating across departments and influencing stakeholders to achieve operational excellence. You will be instrumental in shaping the future operational capabilities of the company, ensuring competitiveness and sustained growth within the automotive supply chain sector. The role demands strategic thinking combined with a hands‑on approach to problem‑solving.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and refine the operational strategy to align with the company's overall business objectives.
• Lead cross-functional teams in the identification and execution of strategic operational improvement projects.
• Analyze operational data to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and opportunities for enhancement.
• Implement best practices in lean manufacturing, supply chain optimization, and process management.
• Develop business cases and proposals for new operational initiatives and investments.
• Collaborate with site leadership and department heads to ensure effective implementation of strategies.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and report on operational progress and impact.
• Facilitate strategic planning sessions and workshops.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and technological advancements relevant to manufacturing operations.
• Mentor junior team members involved in operational strategy and improvement initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related technical field. A Master's degree is preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in operations management, strategic planning, or consulting, with a focus on manufacturing.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing successful operational strategies.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with proficiency in data analysis and modeling.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with lean manufacturing principles and project management methodologies.
• Familiarity with ERP systems and operational software.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a hybrid environment, balancing remote work with on‑site engagement in East London .
• Strong understanding of the automotive manufacturing sector is a significant advantage.
• Demonstrated ability to drive significant operational improvements.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package and performance‑related bonus.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility and work‑life balance.
• Opportunities for professional development and advancement.
• Exposure to global best practices and cutting‑edge technologies.
• Supportive and collaborative work culture.
• Located in the dynamic industrial hub of East London .