Chemical Plant Manager - Industrial Chemicals

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 2,500,000 - 4,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level compensation package

Company vehicle and fuel allowance

Comprehensive executive health, life,

Disability insurance

Retirement savings plan with company-m

Relocation package to Rustenburg

Professional development and executive

Annual leave and paid sick days

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Chemical Plant Manager for a major industrial chemicals facility in Rustenburg, North West. This executive role carries the ultimate responsibility for the safe, efficient, and profitable operation of the plant, directing production, maintenance, safety and environmental compliance.

The ideal candidate will hold a chemical or mechanical engineering degree (MBA a plus), with at least 12 years in chemical plant ops and 5 years in a management role.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• MBA or advanced degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in chemical plant operations, with at least 5 years in a managerial or supervisory role.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all day-to-day operations of the chemical manufacturing plant, ensuring adherence to production schedules and quality standards.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to improve plant efficiency, reduce operational costs, and enhance productivity.
• Ensure strict compliance with all health, safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Manage the plant budget, control expenditures, and identify cost‑saving opportunities.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the plant's operational and technical teams, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Oversee maintenance and reliability programs to ensure maximum uptime of plant equipment.
• Manage relationships with suppliers, contractors, and regulatory bodies.
• Drive initiatives related to process safety management (PSM) and environmental stewardship.
• Champion a culture of safety throughout the plant, aiming for zero incidents.

Skills

Leadership

Operations management

Budgeting & cost control

Safety & compliance

Team development

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical/Mechanical Engineering

MBA or advanced degree

Tools

SCADA/Automation systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the industrial chemicals manufacturing sector, is seeking a seasoned and results-oriented Chemical Plant Manager for their facility in Rustenburg, North West . This executive-level position carries the ultimate responsibility for the safe, efficient, and profitable operation of the entire plant. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership capabilities, a deep understanding of chemical manufacturing processes, and a commitment to operational excellence. You will oversee all aspects of plant operations, including production, maintenance, safety, environmental compliance, and personnel management. This is a crucial leadership role for our organization, directly impacting our production output and market competitiveness. The plant is located in a key industrial region, offering significant opportunities for impact and growth. We are dedicated to fostering a safe and productive work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all day-to-day operations of the chemical manufacturing plant, ensuring adherence to production schedules and quality standards.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to improve plant efficiency, reduce operational costs, and enhance productivity.
• Ensure strict compliance with all health, safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Manage the plant budget, control expenditures, and identify cost‑saving opportunities.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the plant's operational and technical teams, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Oversee maintenance and reliability programs to ensure maximum uptime of plant equipment.
• Manage relationships with suppliers, contractors, and regulatory bodies.
• Drive initiatives related to process safety management (PSM) and environmental stewardship.
• Champion a culture of safety throughout the plant, aiming for zero incidents.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• An MBA or advanced degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in chemical plant operations, with at least 5 years in a managerial or supervisory role.
• Demonstrated experience in managing large‑scale chemical manufacturing processes.
• Strong knowledge of industrial safety standards, environmental regulations, and process safety management.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, control costs, and improve operational efficiency.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Experience with unionized environments is an advantage.
• Proficiency in industrial automation and control systems.
• Strong understanding of maintenance and reliability principles.

Benefits

• Executive‑level compensation package, including base salary and significant performance bonuses.
• Company vehicle and fuel allowance.
• Comprehensive executive health, life, and disability insurance.
• Generous retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Relocation package to Rustenburg, North West .
• Opportunities for professional development and executive training.
• Annual leave and paid sick days.