Director - Regional Manufacturing

Defy; KwaZulu-Natal; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

A multinational manufacturing company is seeking a Director – Regional Manufacturing in Durban to lead optimization of manufacturing operations. The role includes driving performance, ensuring compliance, and fostering a culture of safety and innovation. Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, 15+ years of manufacturing experience, and proven leadership skills. Join us to make a significant impact in a dynamic environment focused on quality and sustainability.

Benefits

Culture of empowerment

Continuous growth opportunities

Innovative work environment

Qualifications

• 15+ years in unionized retail manufacturing with proven leadership.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale production facilities and achieving KPIs.
• Exceptional people leadership, stakeholder engagement, and change management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and optimize manufacturing operations to meet customer demand.
• Drive performance across key metrics: safety, quality, cost, delivery, and productivity.
• Champion a world-class safety culture and ensure full HSE compliance.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Digital Transformation

Team Leadership

Stakeholder Engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering, Industrial or Operations Management

Master's degree (preferred)

Job description

Overview

Are you a visionary manufacturing leader ready to shape the future of operational excellence?

We’re seeking a Director – Regional Manufacturing in Durban (Jacobs) to lead strategic oversight of our manufacturing operations, drive performance, and champion innovation across our regional sites.

The Director-Regional Manufacturing role involves developing and implementing production strategies, optimizing schedules, and managing capacity and resources to meet customer demand efficiently. The role develops and fosters technological advancement, implements investment plans, and reports to Senior leadership on performance, plans, and challenges, ensuring the site’s overall success and sustainability.

This is your opportunity to make a lasting impact in a dynamic, fast-paced environment where safety, quality, and sustainability are at the heart of everything we do.

Core Functions

• Lead and optimize manufacturing operations to meet customer demand and business goals.
• Drive performance across key metrics: safety, quality, cost, delivery, and productivity.
• Champion a world-class safety culture and ensure full HSE compliance.
• Foster continuous improvement through Lean, Six Sigma, and advanced technologies.
• Develop high-performing teams through coaching, succession planning, and empowerment.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and deliver sustained financial improvements.
• Oversee asset reliability, maintenance, and capital investment projects.
• Build strong relationships with employees, unions, and community stakeholders.

Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Industrial or Operations Management (master’s preferred).
• 15+ years in unionized retail manufacturing with proven leadership in large-scale operations.
• Expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, TPM, and digital transformation.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale production facilities and achieving KPIs (quality, cost, delivery, safety).
• Strong strategic, financial, and operational acumen.
• Ability to foster teamwork, collaboration, and employee engagement.
• Experience in change management and digital transformation initiatives.
• Exceptional people leadership, stakeholder engagement, and change management skills.
• Deep understanding of HSE, compliance, and quality standards.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a purpose-driven multinational organization leading in innovation and sustainability.
• Lead transformative initiatives that shape the future of manufacturing.
• Collaborate with cross-functional and global teams.
• Enjoy a culture of empowerment, accountability, and continuous growth.

Ready to lead with impact?
Apply now and take the next step in your leadership journey.