Chemical Operations Manager

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level compensation

Performance bonuses

Relocation assistance

Leadership training opportunities

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Chemical Operations Manager to lead an Upington facility. The role ensures safe, efficient, and profitable plant operations, directing production, quality, and environmental compliance with a strong leadership focus.

You will mentor supervisors and engineers, oversee budgets, and drive continuous improvements across safety, reliability, and KPI targets in a hands-on, on-site leadership position.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• MBA is advantageous.
• Minimum 10 years in chemical plant operations with supervisory experience.
• Strong knowledge of process safety management, environmental regulations, and QA systems.
• Proven leadership and budgeting capabilities.
• Experience with ERP and MES implementations.
• Willingness to reside or commute to Upington, on-site.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all day-to-day chemical plant operations for safety and productivity.
• Develop and execute strategic plans to hit production targets and costs.
• Ensure adherence to HSE regulations and company policies.
• Lead and develop plant supervisors, engineers, and operators.
• Manage the operating budget to maximize profitability.
• Implement KPIs for safety, quality, and efficiency.
• Oversee maintenance and reliability programs to minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with supply chain, logistics and commercial teams.
• Drive continuous improvement using Lean or Six Sigma methodologies.
• Manage capital expenditure for plant upgrades and expansions.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

HSE compliance

ERP systems

MES

Strategic planning

Communication

Education

Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering

MBA (preferred)

Tools

ERP systems

MES

PSM systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major producer of industrial chemicals, is seeking an experienced and results-driven Chemical Operations Manager to lead their facility in Upington, Northern Cape . This senior leadership role is responsible for the overall safe, efficient, and profitable operation of the chemical plant. You will manage all aspects of production, including personnel, quality control, safety, environmental compliance, and budget adherence. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of chemical manufacturing processes, and a proven track record in operational excellence. This is a critical, on-site position.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all day-to-day chemical plant operations, ensuring optimal performance and productivity.


• Develop and implement strategic plans to achieve production targets, cost efficiencies, and quality standards.


• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and environmental (HSE) regulations and company policies.


• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of plant supervisors, engineers, and operators.


• Manage the plant's operational budget, controlling costs and maximizing profitability.


• Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for safety, quality, and efficiency.


• Oversee maintenance and reliability programs to ensure plant uptime and minimize disruptions.


• Collaborate with supply chain, logistics, and commercial teams to meet customer demands.


• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma.


• Manage capital expenditure projects related to plant upgrades and expansions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field.


• An MBA is a plus.


• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in chemical plant operations, with at least 5 years in a management or supervisory role.


• Demonstrated expertise in managing complex chemical manufacturing processes and large teams.


• In-depth knowledge of process safety management (PSM), environmental regulations, and quality assurance systems.


• Proven leadership and people management skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire staff.


• Strong financial acumen and experience managing operational budgets.


• Excellent strategic planning, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities.


• Effective communication and stakeholder management skills.


• Experience with ERP systems and manufacturing execution systems (MES).


• Must be willing to reside in or commute to Upington, Northern Cape , and commit to full-time, on-site presence.

Benefits

Our client offers an executive-level compensation package, including a substantial base salary, significant performance bonuses, comprehensive medical coverage, and robust retirement planning benefits. This position, based in Upington, Northern Cape , provides a unique opportunity to lead a key operational facility and make a significant impact on the company's success. You will benefit from career advancement opportunities within a leading chemical organization. We also offer relocation assistance and support for professional development and leadership training.