Operations Director - Manufacturing

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Annual bonus

Company car & fuel allowance

Health insurance

Relocation assistance

Pension & life insurance

International training

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an accomplished Operations Director to lead production facilities in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. The role requires a strong background in manufacturing operations, supply chain, and continuous improvement to boost quality and productivity.

You will oversee planning, lean initiatives, budgets, and cross‑functional teams, reporting to senior leadership. A Bachelor's (and ideally a Master's) in engineering or operations, plus 8+ years in heavy industry, are expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is highly desirable.
• Minimum 8 years of progressive experience in manufacturing operations management.
• Strong knowledge of lean, Six Sigma and quality improvement methods.
• Solid financial acumen with budgeting and cost control experience.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• Experience with ERP systems and MES.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of manufacturing operations including production planning, scheduling and execution.
• Develop strategies to enhance efficiency, reduce costs and improve product quality.
• Lead the production management team and foster a culture of safety and continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.
• Implement lean manufacturing principles and best practices.
• Manage budgets, forecast production needs and optimize resources.
• Collaborate with supply chain, QA and engineering to ensure seamless operations.
• Drive innovations in production processes and technology adoption.
• Monitor KPIs and report performance to senior leadership.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Master's degree in Engineering/Operations Management

Tools

ERP systems

MES

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the manufacturing sector, is seeking a seasoned Operations Director to oversee their production facilities and operational efficiency in the Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape area. This senior management role demands a leader with a robust background in manufacturing operations, supply chain management, and a commitment to driving quality and productivity. The ideal candidate will be adept at optimizing production processes, managing large teams, and ensuring compliance with stringent industry standards. This role offers a blend of on-site operational leadership and strategic planning, contributing significantly to the company's growth and market position. We are looking for a results-oriented executive who can bring innovation and efficiency to our manufacturing floor.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of the manufacturing operations, including production planning, scheduling, and execution.


• Develop and implement strategies to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality.


• Manage and mentor the production management team, fostering a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.


• Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and environmental regulations within the manufacturing facilities.


• Implement and maintain lean manufacturing principles and best practices.


• Manage operational budgets, forecast production needs, and optimize resource allocation.


• Collaborate with supply chain, quality assurance, and engineering departments to ensure seamless operations.


• Drive innovation in production processes and technology adoption.


• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and report on operational performance to senior leadership.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field. A Master's degree is highly desirable.


• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in manufacturing operations management, with a strong understanding of automotive or related heavy industry.


• Proven track record in leading and optimizing complex manufacturing processes.


• Deep knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other quality improvement methodologies.


• Strong financial acumen, including experience with budgeting and cost control in a manufacturing environment.


• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.


• Experience with ERP systems and manufacturing execution systems (MES).


• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, balancing strategic planning with on-site operational oversight.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of ZAR.


• Performance-based annual bonus.


• Company car and fuel allowance.


• Comprehensive health insurance package.


• Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates.


• Pension fund and life insurance benefits.


• Opportunities for international training and development.