Lead Industrial Engineer - Strategic Operations Planning

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

Benefits offered by this job

highly competitive executive salary

comprehensive health and retirement

performance-based bonuses

stock options

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Industrial Engineer in Stellenbosch to spearhead strategic operations planning and drive significant efficiency gains. You will analyze processes, design optimized workflows, and collaborate with executive leadership to align plans with business goals.

The role requires a Master’s in IE (or MBA with engineering focus) and 10+ years in strategic industrial engineering with strong budgeting and leadership skills. Hybrid work in the Western Cape is offered.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering or MBA with engineering focus.
• 10+ years in industrial engineering with strategic planning experience.
• Proven track record leading large-scale operational improvement projects.
• Expertise in operations research, simulation and data analysis.
• Strong financial acumen and budget management.
• Excellent leadership and ability to engage with C-level executives.
• Experience in technology or agricultural sectors is a strong advantage.
• Hybrid work experience in Western Cape preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop long-term strategic plans for operations focusing on efficiency and cost reduction.
• Lead analysis of existing processes to identify bottlenecks and improvement opportunities.
• Design and optimize workflows, layouts, and resource allocation strategies.
• Conduct feasibility studies and business cases for major initiatives.
• Collaborate with senior management to set KPIs and targets.
• Manage cross-functional teams for strategic projects.
• Apply advanced IE techniques like simulation and data analytics.
• Develop and maintain budgets and forecasts with finance.

Skills

Industrial engineering

Strategic planning

Operations management

Budgeting

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Data analytics

Simulation

Operations research

Education

Master's in Industrial Engineering

MBA with engineering focus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the agricultural technology sector located in the vibrant town of Stellenbosch, Western Cape , is looking for an experienced Lead Industrial Engineer to spearhead strategic operations planning. This senior role is responsible for analyzing current business processes, identifying opportunities for significant efficiency gains, and developing long-term operational strategies. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in industrial engineering, with a proven ability to manage complex projects and influence strategic decision-making. You will work closely with executive leadership and department heads to align operational plans with business objectives, ensuring sustainable growth and profitability. This is a high-impact position offering the chance to shape the operational future of a forward-thinking company in Stellenbosch . Your expertise will be crucial in optimizing resource allocation, enhancing productivity, and driving innovation across the organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement long-term strategic plans for operations, focusing on efficiency, scalability, and cost reduction.
• Lead the analysis of existing business processes, identifying bottlenecks and opportunities for significant improvement.
• Design and optimize operational workflows, facility layouts, and resource allocation strategies.
• Conduct in-depth feasibility studies and business case development for major operational initiatives and investments.
• Collaborate with senior management to set operational goals, KPIs, and performance targets for the organization.
• Manage cross-functional teams on strategic projects, ensuring timely and successful execution.
• Implement advanced industrial engineering techniques, including simulation, modeling, and data analytics, to support strategic planning.
• Develop and maintain operational budgets and forecasts in coordination with the finance department in Western Cape .
• Mentor and develop junior industrial engineers and operational staff.
• Ensure operational strategies align with company values, sustainability goals, and market demands in Stellenbosch .

Requirements

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, Business Administration (MBA) with an engineering focus, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in industrial engineering, with a significant portion in strategic planning and operations management.
• Demonstrated success in leading large-scale operational improvement projects and strategic initiatives.
• Expertise in strategic planning methodologies, operations research, simulation, and advanced data analysis.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in budget development and management.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and influencing skills, with the ability to engage effectively with C-level executives.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and lead diverse teams.
• Deep understanding of business strategy and how it translates into operational plans.
• Experience in the technology or agricultural sector is a strong advantage for this role in Stellenbosch .
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, fostering collaboration and driving results in the Western Cape .

Benefits

• highly competitive executive salary
• comprehensive health and retirement benefits
• performance-based bonuses
• stock options

This leadership role provides unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and strategic impact within a rapidly expanding company in Stellenbosch, Western Cape .

Employees will be part of a forward-thinking team, working with cutting-edge technology and contributing to significant business decisions. The company culture emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and work-life balance. This is an excellent opportunity to shape the future of operations in the thriving Western Cape province.