Manufacturing Operations Manager - Automotive Components

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an accomplished Manufacturing Operations Manager for an advanced facility in East London, Eastern Cape. You will lead production planning, engage cross-functional teams, and drive lean improvements to achieve safety, quality, and efficiency goals.

The role requires 8–10 years in manufacturing, with 5+ years in senior leadership within automotive. Expertise in IATF 16949, budget management, and cost control is essential. Relocation to East London is expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Mechanical/Industrial/Manufacturing, or related field.
• MBA or Master's degree is a strong advantage.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day manufacturing operations including production planning, scheduling and execution.
• Lead and develop a diverse team of supervisors, engineers and line staff.
• Drive lean manufacturing and continuous improvement to boost productivity and reduce waste.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Strategic Planning

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

IATF 16949

Automation Experience

Budget Management

Cost Control

Education

Bachelor's in Engineering

MBA

Tools

None

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global Tier 1 automotive supplier, is seeking a highly accomplished Manufacturing Operations Manager to lead their advanced manufacturing facility located in East London, Eastern Cape . This strategic role demands a proven leader with extensive experience in managing large-scale production operations, driving efficiency, and ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety within the automotive manufacturing sector. The Operations Manager will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of production, from resource planning and team leadership to process optimization and cost management. This is a critical position for a visionary leader passionate about operational excellence and continuous improvement in the competitive automotive industry of East London .

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all day-to-day manufacturing operations, including production planning, scheduling, and execution.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a diverse team of production supervisors, engineers, and line staff to achieve departmental goals.
• Implement and drive lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity, reduce waste, and improve quality.
• Ensure strict adherence to all automotive industry quality standards (e.g., IATF 16949) and safety regulations.
• Manage production budgets, control costs, and identify opportunities for operational efficiency and cost savings.
• Collaborate with cross-functional departments, including engineering, quality assurance, supply chain, and HR, to ensure seamless operations.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for production, quality, safety, and delivery, taking corrective actions as needed.
• Oversee equipment maintenance, facility management, and the implementation of new technologies.
• Foster a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement within the manufacturing environment.
• Develop and maintain strong working relationships with key stakeholders, including customers and suppliers.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing), Business Administration, or a related field.
• An MBA or Master's degree is a strong advantage.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in manufacturing management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role within the automotive industry.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large production teams and complex manufacturing processes.
• Deep understanding of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma methodologies, and operational excellence principles.
• Expertise in automotive quality systems (e.g., IATF 16949) and safety management.
• Strong financial acumen, including budget management and cost control experience.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and strategic planning skills.
• Ability to drive change and implement process improvements effectively.
• Experience with advanced manufacturing technologies and automation is a plus.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the East London, Eastern Cape area.

Benefits

Our client offers an executive-level salary package, comprehensive medical aid, a lucrative retirement fund, and performance-based bonuses. This role provides significant opportunities for career growth and leadership development within a leading global organization. Employees benefit from a dynamic and challenging work environment dedicated to innovation and excellence in East London, Eastern Cape . Join a company at the forefront of automotive manufacturing technology.