General Manager (Manufacturing)

HR Talent Partner SA; Bellville; On-site; ZAR 90 000 - 130 000; Full time

Job summary

A renowned cosmetic manufacturing company in Bellville is seeking a General Manager: Manufacturing. This critical role involves overseeing manufacturing functions and leading teams to drive operational excellence. Candidates should have a strong background in FMCG or cosmetics manufacturing, a relevant degree, and proven leadership skills. Excellent compensation and benefits are offered, along with career advancement opportunities.

Benefits

Excellent compensation package

Internal career advancement opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in manufacturing environments.
• Strong track record in efficiency, cost reduction, and continuous improvement.
• In-depth knowledge of GMP, regulatory, and quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the end-to-end manufacturing function.
• Ensure compliance with GMP, health & safety, and quality standards.
• Deliver on production targets through efficiency and quality improvements.

Skills

Leadership in FMCG, cosmetics, or pharmaceutical manufacturing

Lean methodologies

Six Sigma

Data-driven decision-making

Strong commercial acumen

Problem-solving

Adaptability

Education

Relevant bachelor’s degree (Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain)

Postgraduate qualification (MBA or equivalent)

Tools

ERP/WMS systems

Job description

General Manager (Manufacturing) required in Bellville.

A renowned cosmetic manufacturing company is looking for a General Manager: Manufacturing to join their team on a full-time permanent basis for their offices in Bellville, Cape Town.

Excellent compensation package on offer plus benefits and internal career advancement opportunities.

Position Overview

We are looking for a General Manager: Manufacturing to join our client’s Operations team. This is a critical senior leadership role that will report directly to the Chief Operations Officer with 5 direct reports.

This critical role will oversee the end-to-end manufacturing function, including inbound logistics, material management, storage, and production to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective manufacturing of the client’s product range.

You will drive operational excellence, embed world class standards, and inspire a high-performing team to deliver quality at scale.

Position Requirements

• Proven leadership experience in FMCG, cosmetics, or pharmaceutical manufacturing.
• A relevant bachelor’s degree (Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, or related). A postgraduate qualification (MBA or equivalent) would be advantageous.
• Strong track record in driving efficiency, cost reduction, and continuous improvement.
• In-depth knowledge of GMP, regulatory, and quality standards.
• Skilled in Lean, Six Sigma, and data-driven decision-making.
• Experience managing large teams in complex manufacturing environments.
• ERP/WMS systems proficiency and advanced analytical capability.
• Resilient, adaptable, and able to deliver results under pressure.
• Track record of transforming manufacturing operations in high-growth businesses.
• Hands‑on expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, and automation.
• Strong commercial acumen balancing efficiency, quality, and cost.
• Ability to lead large‑scale teams while embedding a safety‑first culture.
• Exceptional problem‑solving and systems‑thinking mindset.
• Resilient and adaptable leader, able to deliver results under pressure, and inspire teams through collaboration, accountability, and excellence.
• Bring both strategic leadership and hands‑on operational expertise to transform and scale our manufacturing operations.
• Demonstrated ability to manage large, complex teams and embed a “safety‑first” and high performance culture.

Key Responsibility Areas

• Lead inbound logistics, material storage, and manufacturing operations.
• Ensure compliance with GMP, health & safety, regulatory and quality standards.
• Deliver on production targets through efficiency, quality, and yield improvement.
• Embed Lean and continuous improvement methodologies to reduce waste and cost optimisation initiatives.
• Build and coach strong teams, fostering accountability, collaboration, and excellence.
• Championing innovation in manufacturing processes, systems, and technologies.
• Leading and optimising manufacturing operations to meet production targets with world‑class efficiency and quality standards.
• Coaching, mentoring, and building strong teams to deliver sustainable performance.

Areas of Accountability

• Operational Architect: Shape and optimise manufacturing strategies aligned with the company’s growth.
• Excellence Enabler: Drive world‑class standards in quality, safety, and production efficiency.
• Efficiency Engineer: Embed Lean/CI practices and cost optimisation initiatives.
• People Builder: Lead, mentor, and coach teams to achieve sustainable high performance.
• Risk Controller: Safeguard compliance, mitigate operational risks, and maintain stock integrity.
• Innovation Driver: Champion process, systems, and technology advancements.
• Change Maker: Embed a culture of adaptability, resilience, and continuous improvement.

Applying for this position

• Only open to South African citizens.
• If you are interested in this great career opportunity, please send your CV.