Executive operations manager

ExecutivePlacements.com - The JOB Portal; Pietermaritzburg; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in manufacturing is seeking an experienced executive operations manager in Pietermaritzburg. You will be responsible for optimizing production efficiency and ensuring compliance with safety standards while managing large teams and budgets. The ideal candidate should have a strong background in process improvement and management, with relevant certifications. This role offers an excellent opportunity to drive meaningful impact across multi-site operations.

Qualifications

• 8–15+ years of experience in manufacturing operations.
• Strong background in process improvement and change management.
• Proven leadership in a senior management role.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily manufacturing operations across all production lines.
• Lead cross-functional teams in production and maintenance.
• Drive lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Process Improvement

Change Management

Leadership

Compliance Management

Budget Management

Education

OSHA or Safety Management Certifications

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or Green Belt

Project Management Professional (PMP)

Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD)

Tools

ERP Systems (SAP, Oracle)

Job description

Recruiter:

Imforce Recruitment

Job Ref:

EOM01

Date posted:

Wednesday, May 21, 2025

Location:

Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Salary:

R 50,000 Monthly

SUMMARY:

Our client is looking for an experienced executive operations manager capable of optimizing production efficiency, ensuring safety, quality, and driving continuous improvement.

POSITION INFO:

Strong background in process improvement and change management. OSHA or Safety Management certifications (depending on industry).

1. 8–15+ years of progressively responsible experience in manufacturing operations.
2. Oversee daily manufacturing operations across all production lines.
3. Proven leadership in a senior management or executive role.
4. Demonstrated success managing large teams and budgets.
5. Experience with multi-site operations is often a plus.

Ensure compliance with safety regulations and quality standards (e.g., ISO, OSHA).

Develop and implement strategic plans to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

Lead cross-functional teams (production, quality, maintenance, supply chain).

Monitor KPIs and adjust operational strategies accordingly.

Manage budgets, forecasts, and resource allocation.

Drive lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives (Kaizen, Six Sigma).

Implement and optimize ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).

Maintain strong communication with C-suite leadership and external partners/vendors.

Industry-specific knowledge:

• Automotive: Familiarity with IATF 16949, APQP, and DFMEA
• Aerospace: Knowledge of AS9100, FAA requirements
• Consumer Products: Rapid prototyping, injection moulding design
• Medical Devices: FDA/ISO 13485 compliance, risk analysis
• Heavy Industry/Equipment: Welding standards, load-bearing structures

Certifications:

• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or Green Belt
• Project Management Professional (PMP)
• Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) – by APICS
• Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) – by APICS