Industrial Engineering Manager, Manufacturing Excellence

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban is seeking an Industrial Engineering Manager to lead the IE department and drive continuous improvement across production facilities. You will develop and execute strategic initiatives to boost efficiency, quality and cost-effectiveness, while leading a team of engineers.

The role requires a master's degree and 10+ years in manufacturing, with Lean/Six Sigma Black Belt preferred. Join a forward-looking organization focused on safety, innovation and sustainable growth.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering or a closely related field.
• At least 10 years of experience in industrial engineering in a large-scale manufacturing environment.
• Minimum 3 years in a management or supervisory role.
• Demonstrated Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma experience; Black Belt preferred.
• Strong understanding of production planning, scheduling and capacity management.
• Proven ability to lead complex projects from conception to completion.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and strategic thinking skills.
• Exceptional leadership, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with ERP systems and MES.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Industrial Engineering department, overseeing continuous improvement and process optimization activities.
• Develop and implement strategic plans for enhancing manufacturing efficiency, throughput, and quality.
• Champion Lean Manufacturing principles (Kaizen, 5S, Value Stream Mapping) throughout the organization.
• Oversee the design and implementation of new production lines and the optimization of existing ones.
• Conduct capacity planning and resource allocation studies to meet production demands.
• Manage capital expenditure projects related to process improvement and equipment upgrades.
• Establish and track KPIs for manufacturing operations and drive performance improvements.
• Develop and mentor the industrial engineering team, providing guidance for professional growth.
• Collaborate with cross-functional leadership to align on operational goals and strategy.
• Ensure adherence to safety, environmental and quality standards.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Project management

Data analysis

ERP/MES knowledge

Education

Master's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

ERP systems

MES

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished player in the automotive manufacturing sector located in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal , is seeking an accomplished Industrial Engineering Manager. This leadership role is integral to driving manufacturing excellence and continuous improvement across all production facilities. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and executing strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, product quality, and cost-effectiveness. This position requires a visionary leader with extensive experience in implementing lean manufacturing principles and optimizing complex production systems. You will lead a team of skilled industrial engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and performance. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of manufacturing operations for a respected company in Durban . The manager will play a key role in ensuring our client remains at the forefront of industry best practices and technological advancements, driving sustainable growth and competitive advantage. The scope includes strategic planning and hands‑on oversight of operational improvements.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Industrial Engineering department, overseeing all continuous improvement and process optimization activities.
• Develop and implement strategic plans for enhancing manufacturing efficiency, throughput, and quality.
• Champion Lean Manufacturing principles (e.g., Kaizen, 5S, Value Stream Mapping) throughout the organization.
• Oversee the design and implementation of new production lines and the optimization of existing ones.
• Conduct detailed capacity planning and resource allocation studies to meet production demands.
• Manage capital expenditure projects related to process improvement and equipment upgrades.
• Establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) for manufacturing operations and drive performance improvement initiatives.
• Develop and mentor the industrial engineering team, providing guidance and opportunities for professional growth.
• Collaborate with cross-functional leadership to ensure alignment on operational goals and strategy.
• Ensure adherence to all safety, environmental, and quality standards within the manufacturing environment.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering or a closely related engineering discipline.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in industrial engineering within a large-scale manufacturing environment, with at least 3 years in a management or supervisory role.
• Demonstrated expertise in implementing Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies, with Black Belt certification highly preferred.
• Strong understanding of production planning, scheduling, and capacity management.
• Proven ability to lead complex projects from conception to completion.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with a track record of motivating teams.
• Experience with ERP systems and manufacturing execution systems (MES).
• Proficiency in project management methodologies and tools.
• Commitment to fostering a safe and productive work environment.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, life insurance, and a generous retirement fund contribution. Performance-driven bonuses, extensive training and development programs, and significant opportunities for career advancement within a growing organization are provided. The company culture emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and employee well-being, making this an exceptional career opportunity in Durban .