Manufacturing Operations Manager

Placements24; Kempton Park; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation package

Medical and retirement benefits

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a seasoned Manufacturing Operations Manager to lead a key facility in Tembisa, Gauteng. The role demands strategic oversight of manufacturing operations, safety, and continuous improvement to sustain competitive advantage.

You will steer production planning, budgeting, and cross-functional collaboration to meet ambitious targets. The ideal candidate will bring 8+ years in manufacturing leadership, strong Lean/Six Sigma expertise, and a proven ability to drive cost-effective,

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in engineering, business, operations management, or related field.
• MBA or advanced degree is a plus.
• Minimum 8 years of progressive manufacturing operations experience, with leadership roles.
• Proven track record in large-scale production facilities and complex operations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic operational plans for production volume, quality, and cost.
• Oversee production planning, scheduling, material flow, and inventory management.
• Mentor and lead production teams, including supervisors and line managers.
• Implement and maintain HSE policies to ensure safe operations.
• Lead Lean/Six Sigma and continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste and improve quality.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and Sales to align operations with business goals.
• Manage operational budgets and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Monitor KPIs and drive corrective actions to meet targets.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and best practices in manufacturing.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Communication

Negotiation

Interpersonal skills

Financial acumen

Change management

Education

Bachelor’s degree (Engineering/Business/Operations)

MBA or advanced degree

Tools

ERP systems

MES

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic leader in the manufacturing industry, is seeking a seasoned Manufacturing Operations Manager for their facility in Tembisa, Gauteng. This senior leadership position requires a strategic thinker with extensive experience in managing all facets of manufacturing operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving operational excellence, ensuring the efficient and cost-effective production of goods, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and safety. You will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our manufacturing capabilities, implementing innovative strategies, and leading a dedicated team to achieve ambitious goals. This role is crucial for maintaining our competitive edge and expanding our market reach. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of supply chain management, quality assurance, and production planning.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to achieve company objectives for production volume, quality, and cost.
• Oversee all aspects of the manufacturing process, including production planning, scheduling, material flow, and inventory management.
• Manage and mentor the production team, including supervisors and line managers, fostering a positive and productive work culture.
• Implement and maintain robust health, safety, and environmental (HSE) policies and procedures to ensure compliance and a safe working environment.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives utilizing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other relevant methodologies to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve quality.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional departments such as Engineering, Quality Assurance, Supply Chain, and Sales to ensure seamless operations and customer satisfaction.
• Manage the operational budget, identify cost-saving opportunities, and ensure financial targets are met.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement action plans to address deviations and achieve targets.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and best practices to ensure the company remains at the forefront of manufacturing innovation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field.
• An MBA or advanced degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in manufacturing operations, with a significant portion in a management or leadership capacity.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale production facilities and complex operations.
• Extensive knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing operational budgets.
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with ERP systems and manufacturing execution systems (MES).Demonstrated ability to drive change and foster a culture of accountability and excellence.
• Experience working in or managing operations in Tembisa, Gauteng is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive executive compensation package, including an attractive base salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive benefits include top-tier medical, dental, and vision insurance, a robust retirement savings plan with company matching, and generous paid time off.
• Opportunities for executive leadership training, international travel, and professional development are abundant.
• Join a respected organization committed to innovation, quality, and employee well-being.