Manufacturing Operations Manager

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Performance-based bonus

Medical aid and provident fund

Life insurance

Company vehicle

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Manufacturing Operations Manager for a leading manufacturing facility in Benoni, Gauteng. The role oversees production, quality, safety, and efficiency, driving operational excellence with large teams and continuous improvement initiatives.

The ideal candidate holds a relevant engineering or business degree and has 8–10 years in manufacturing operations, including at least 3 years in a senior leadership role.

Qualifications

• Masters or Bachelors degree in Engineering, Business Admin, Operations Management or related field.
• 8–10 years in manufacturing operations with 3+ years in senior leadership.
• Experience implementing Lean/Six Sigma and other continuous improvement methods.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute operational strategies to meet production targets and cost objectives.
• Lead all production departments ensuring efficient workflow and resource allocation.
• Implement and maintain quality management systems (ISO 9001) and ensure compliance.
• Oversee HSE programs and maintain a safe working environment.
• Drive continuous improvement using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Manage operational budgets, control costs, and optimize profitability.
• Mentor the operations team and foster high performance and accountability.
• Collaborate with R&D, sales, and supply chain to align with business goals.
• Monitor KPIs and take corrective actions as needed.
• Ensure maintenance and optimal use of plant machinery and equipment.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Budget management

ERP/MES

HSE awareness

Stakeholder management

Education

Master's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Business Admin/Operations Management

Tools

ERP systems

MES

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading force in the manufacturing and production industry, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Manufacturing Operations Manager to lead their facility in Benoni, Gauteng . This senior leadership role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the manufacturing operations, including production, quality, safety, and efficiency. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in driving operational excellence, managing large teams, and implementing continuous improvement initiatives. This is a strategic position offering significant influence within a key industrial area of Gauteng . We are looking for a visionary leader committed to innovation and sustainable manufacturing practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute operational strategies to achieve production targets, quality standards, and cost objectives.
• Manage and lead all production departments, ensuring efficient workflow and resource allocation.
• Implement and maintain robust quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001), and ensure compliance.
• Oversee health, safety, and environmental (HSE) programs, ensuring a safe working environment for all employees.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using methodologies like Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma.
• Manage operational budgets, controlling costs and optimizing profitability.
• Develop and mentor the operations team, fostering a culture of high performance and accountability.
• Collaborate with other departments, including R&D, sales, and supply chain, to ensure alignment with business goals.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Ensure the optimal maintenance and utilization of plant machinery and equipment.

Requirements

• Master's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in manufacturing operations management, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role.
• Demonstrated success in implementing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong financial acumen with experience in budget management and cost control.
• Excellent leadership, strategic thinking, and decision-making skills.
• Proven ability to manage complex operations and large teams effectively.
• In-depth knowledge of manufacturing processes, quality standards, and safety regulations.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience with ERP systems and manufacturing execution systems (MES).
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Benoni, Gauteng , with flexibility for hybrid work.

Benefits

• Highly competitive executive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive executive benefits package including medical aid, provident fund, and life insurance.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement and leadership development.
• Relocation assistance package available for qualified candidates.
• Chance to lead strategic initiatives in a growing organization.
• Company vehicle and other executive perks.
• Generous paid time off and leave policies.
• Annual performance reviews and professional development support.
• A dynamic and innovative work culture.
• Impactful role in the industrial engine of Gauteng .