Head of Operations - Automotive Sector

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Company vehicle scheme

International training opportunities

Competitive annual bonus

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Head of Operations to oversee extensive automotive production facilities and supply chain in Pretoria, Gauteng. You will drive lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and operational excellence across complex production environments, managing large teams, budgets, and KPIs.

The role requires an MBA or master’s preferred, 10+ years in automotive ops, and a track record of optimizing quality, safety, and cost efficiencies while collaborating with R&D,

Qualifications

• Degree(s) in mechanical/industrial engineering or operations management.
• MBA or equivalent master’s degree highly preferred.
• 10+ years in operations management within automotive manufacturing.
• Proven lean manufacturing and Six Sigma implementations.
• Experience with large-scale production facilities and complex supply chains.
• Strong financial acumen with large budgets and P&L experience.
• Leadership and strategic planning capabilities.
• Proficient in MES and ERP systems.
• Knowledge of ISO/TS 16949 quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead automotive manufacturing operations including production, QA, supply chain and logistics.
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to hit targets and costs.
• Drive lean and continuous improvement across all areas.
• Manage raw materials, inventory, and supplier relationships.
• Ensure safety and environmental standards across facilities.
• Oversee budgets, P&L, and capex planning.
• Mentor and develop a high-performing ops team.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, and sales for alignment.
• Implement KPIs to monitor performance and identify improvements.
• Drive automation and tech advancements in operations.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Budgeting & P&L management

Operational excellence

Problem solving

Analytical skills

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Operations Management

MBA or Master's degree

Tools

MES

ERP software

Quality management systems (ISO/TS 16949)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading automotive manufacturing group, is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Head of Operations to oversee their extensive production facilities and supply chain operations in the Pretoria, Gauteng area. This senior management position requires a leader with a profound understanding of automotive manufacturing processes, lean methodologies, and operational excellence. You will be responsible for optimizing production efficiency, ensuring stringent quality control, managing complex supply chains, and leading large operational teams. The ideal candidate will possess a strong track record in driving continuous improvement, managing significant budgets, and fostering a culture of safety and innovation within a high-volume manufacturing environment. This role offers a significant opportunity to influence the operational direction of a major industry player.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of the automotive manufacturing operations, including production, quality assurance, supply chain, and logistics.
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to achieve production targets, cost efficiencies, and quality standards.
• Drive the adoption of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies across all operational areas.
• Oversee the management of raw material procurement, inventory control, and supplier relationships.
• Ensure adherence to strict safety regulations and environmental standards within all facilities.
• Manage operational budgets, P&L responsibilities, and capital expenditure planning.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of operations managers and supervisors.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, and sales departments to ensure alignment with product development and market demands.
• Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track operational effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.
• Drive technological advancements and automation initiatives within the operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.
• An MBA or Master's degree is highly preferred.
• 10+ years of extensive experience in operations management within the automotive manufacturing sector.
• Demonstrated success in implementing lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement programs.
• Proven ability to manage large-scale production facilities and complex supply chains.
• Strong financial acumen with experience managing significant operational budgets and P&L.
• Exceptional leadership, team management, and strategic planning skills.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and analytical abilities.
• Proficiency in manufacturing execution systems (MES) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) software.
• Strong understanding of quality management systems (e.g., ISO/TS 16949).

Benefits

Our client provides a comprehensive compensation and benefits package:

• Highly competitive annual salary of R.
• Performance-driven annual bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Opportunities for international training and development.
• Relocation assistance may be available.
• Access to company vehicle schemes.
• A stimulating and challenging work environment.