Lead Industrial Engineering Manager

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

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation package

International exposure

Executive development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is assisting a diversified industrial group in Centurion, Gauteng to recruit a Lead Industrial Engineering Manager. You will oversee the industrial engineering function across manufacturing and logistics, driving efficiency, cost control, and project delivery within a dynamic, safety-focused environment.

The role requires a Master's in Industrial Engineering (PhD advantageous), 10+ years of IE experience with 3–5 years in leadership, and Black Belt certification.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering or related field required.
• Minimum 10 years progressive experience in industrial engineering with 3–5 years in management.
• Black Belt certification required with Lean manufacturing and Six Sigma expertise.
• Experience in facility layout, capacity planning, and production scheduling.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of industrial engineers and drive professional development.
• Develop and execute long-term IE strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Oversee design and optimization of manufacturing processes, layouts, and material flow.
• Implement continuous improvement using Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen; set KPIs and monitor targets.

Skills

Leadership

Lean Six Sigma

Change management

Strategic planning

Project management

Education

Master's degree in Industrial Engineering

PhD advantageous

Tools

ERP systems

Advanced simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a diversified industrial group, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Lead Industrial Engineering Manager to oversee and direct the industrial engineering function at their key facility in Centurion, Gauteng. This leadership role is responsible for developing and executing strategies that enhance operational efficiency, productivity, and cost management across the entire manufacturing and logistics spectrum. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership capabilities, a deep understanding of industrial engineering principles, and a proven ability to manage complex projects and teams. You will play a critical role in shaping the operational future of our client's business.

Key Responsibilities

Lead, mentor, and manage a team of industrial engineers, providing guidance and support for their professional development. Develop and implement long-term industrial engineering strategies aligned with the company's overall business objectives. Oversee the design and optimization of manufacturing processes, facility layouts, and material flow systems. Drive continuous improvement initiatives using methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen across all operations. Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) for industrial engineering activities and monitor performance against targets. Manage budgets and resource allocation for the industrial engineering department. Collaborate with senior management and other department heads to identify and implement strategic operational improvements. Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations within the operations. Champion the adoption of new technologies and best practices to maintain a competitive advantage. Represent the industrial engineering department in cross-functional project teams and management meetings for operations in Centurion.

Requirements

Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field. A Ph.D. is advantageous. A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in industrial engineering, with at least 3-5 years in a management or leadership role. Extensive knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma (Black Belt certification required), and other process improvement methodologies. Proven experience in facility layout design, capacity planning, and production scheduling. Strong financial acumen and experience managing departmental budgets. Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills. Demonstrated ability to lead change initiatives and drive cultural transformation. Experience with advanced simulation and modeling software. Familiarity with ERP systems and supply chain management principles. Experience in the Gauteng industrial sector is highly preferred.

Benefits

Our client offers an executive-level compensation package, including a substantial bonus and long-term incentive plan. Comprehensive health benefits, a generous retirement fund contribution, and executive car schemes are included. Opportunities for international exposure and further executive development are available. Join a forward-thinking organization and lead a critical function from our strategic base in Centurion, Gauteng. This is a unique opportunity to shape the operational excellence of a major industrial enterprise.