Graduate Operations Analyst - Stellenbosch Food & Beverage

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Mentorship

Professional development

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, is seeking a Graduate Operations Analyst to join a manufacturing team. You will analyze production data, identify inefficiencies, and contribute to process improvements.

The role offers hybrid work with on-site engagement at the Stellenbosch facility and remote flexibility, requiring a quantitative mindset and interest in operations management within the food and beverage sector.

Qualifications

• Recent graduate with quantitative degree related to operations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in Excel; comfort with data tools (SQL/Python/R).

Responsibilities

• Collect, analyse, and interpret production data and efficiency metrics.
• Identify bottlenecks and propose process improvements.
• Develop and maintain dashboards and reports for management.
• Assist in forecasting demand and planning production schedules.
• Support inventory monitoring and supply chain optimisation.
• Collaborate with production, quality control, and logistics teams.
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
• Stay updated on best practices in operations management.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Data interpretation

Communication

Team collaboration

Organisational skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Operations Management / Industrial Engineering / Supply Chain

Tools

SQL

Python

R

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading food and beverage producer with operations in Stellenbosch, Western Cape , is seeking a sharp and analytical Graduate Operations Analyst. This is an exciting opportunity for a recent graduate to dive into the operational aspects of a dynamic manufacturing business. You will be involved in analysing production data, identifying areas for process improvement, and contributing to efficiency gains. The role offers a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for both on-site engagement at our Stellenbosch facility and remote flexibility. We are looking for candidates with strong quantitative skills, a methodical approach, and a genuine interest in optimising operational performance within the food and beverage industry. Join a team dedicated to excellence and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Collect, analyse, and interpret operational data, including production output, waste, and efficiency metrics
• Identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies in production processes and propose solutions
• Develop and maintain operational dashboards and reports for management
• Support the implementation of process improvement initiatives (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma)
• Assist in forecasting demand and planning production schedules
• Monitor inventory levels and support supply chain optimisation efforts
• Collaborate with production, quality control, and logistics teams to gather data and insights
• Conduct root cause analysis for operational issues and implement corrective actions
• Stay updated on industry best practices and new technologies in operations management
• Contribute to cost reduction and quality improvement projects

Requirements

• Recent graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Business Analytics, or a related quantitative field
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex data
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (e.g., pivot tables, VLOOKUPs); experience with data analysis tools (e.g., SQL, Python, R) is highly advantageous
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, enabling effective collaboration
• Organised, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment
• A proactive approach to identifying and solving problems
• Interest in the food and beverage manufacturing industry
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the Stellenbosch, Western Cape area to fulfil hybrid work requirements

Benefits

• This role offers a competitive graduate salary, along with opportunities for professional development and training in operations management methodologies
• You will gain hands‑on experience in a key sector of the economy, working with sophisticated production processes
• The hybrid work model promotes a healthy work-life balance
• Mentorship from experienced operations managers will guide your career growth
• Exposure to cross‑functional teams and high‑impact projects
• Contribution towards medical aid and a retirement fund
• Opportunity to work within a respected company in the picturesque region of Stellenbosch
• Potential for advancement within the operations department based on performance and contribution