Factory Operations Continuous Improvement Manager

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work flexibility

Health insurance

Generous PTO

Professional growth programs

Retirement savings plan

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban seeks an experienced Factory Operations Continuous Improvement Manager to drive Lean, Six Sigma, and productivity across the FMCG manufacturing hub. This remote-first role emphasizes shaping transformation initiatives from afar while staying connected with the Durban plant.

You will mentor teams, lead Kaizen events, analyze KPIs, and implement best practices to improve quality and cost.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum 6 years in continuous improvement, Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma.
• Black Belt certification with proven complex project leadership.
• Strong analytical skills; proficient in Excel, Minitab, Power BI.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive continuous improvement strategy for the factory operations.
• Lead Lean Six Sigma projects, Kaizen events, and other improvement initiatives.
• Analyze operational data and KPIs to identify opportunities and root causes of inefficiency.
• Implement and standardize best practices in waste reduction, workflow optimization, and quality control.
• Mentor cross-functional teams on continuous improvement methodologies.
• Develop training materials and conduct workshops to build internal capability in Lean and Six Sigma.

Skills

Lean Six Sigma

Black Belt

Data analysis

Communication

Project management

Remote work

Excel

Power BI

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Minitab

Power BI

Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the FMCG sector, is seeking a highly experienced and results-oriented Factory Operations Continuous Improvement Manager to join their esteemed team in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is pivotal in driving operational excellence and fostering a culture of relentless improvement throughout the manufacturing facility. The successful candidate will be instrumental in identifying inefficiencies, developing and implementing strategic solutions, and mentoring teams on best practices in Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma. This is a remote-first role, offering the flexibility to manage operations and drive change from anywhere, while maintaining strong connections with the manufacturing hub in Durban . You will be responsible for leading significant transformation initiatives, aiming to boost productivity, reduce operational costs, and elevate product quality standards. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a substantial impact on a leading organization’s operational performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive continuous improvement strategy for the factory operations, aligned with company objectives.
• Lead and facilitate Lean Six Sigma projects, Kaizen events, and other improvement initiatives across all production departments.
• Analyze operational data and key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify areas of opportunity and root causes of inefficiency.
• Implement and standardize best practices in areas such as waste reduction, workflow optimization, and quality control.
• Mentor and coach cross-functional teams, including production supervisors, engineers, and line operators, on continuous improvement methodologies.
• Develop training materials and conduct workshops to build internal capability in Lean and Six Sigma principles.
• Track and report on the progress and financial impact of improvement initiatives to senior management.
• Collaborate with department heads to ensure the sustainability of implemented changes and foster a culture of proactive problem-solving.
• Benchmark performance against industry best practices and identify innovative solutions to drive competitive advantage.
• Champion a culture of safety, quality, and efficiency throughout the entire manufacturing process in Durban .

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• A minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in continuous improvement, Lean Manufacturing, or Six Sigma roles, preferably within a high-volume manufacturing environment.
• Proven Black Belt certification or equivalent demonstrated experience in leading complex improvement projects.
• Strong analytical skills, with proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Minitab, Power BI).
• Demonstrated ability to lead change initiatives and influence stakeholders at all levels of an organization.
• Excellent project management, organizational, and communication skills.
• Experience with various manufacturing processes and equipment.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities effectively in a remote setting.
• Familiarity with budget management and financial analysis related to improvement projects.
• A proactive and results-driven mindset with a passion for operational excellence.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package with performance-based incentives.
• Remote work flexibility, allowing for a better work-life balance.
• Comprehensive health insurance benefits.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Opportunities for professional growth, including advanced Lean Six Sigma training and leadership development.
• Contribution to a retirement savings plan.
• Chance to work with a respected brand and drive significant operational advancements from afar.
• Access to digital tools and resources to facilitate remote collaboration and project management.