Operations Excellence Manager

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in East London, Eastern Cape, seeks an Operations Excellence Manager to lead continuous improvement across manufacturing. You will drive Lean and Six Sigma initiatives, reduce waste, and elevate safety and quality across processes through strategic projects.

The role requires a Black Belt/Master Black Belt, 6+ years in operations/CI, strong leadership and remote-working ability. ISO 9001 knowledge and relocation to East London are a plus.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, operations management or related field.
• Minimum of 6 years in operations management or continuous improvement with Lean/Six Sigma.
• Black Belt or Master Black Belt in Six Sigma is required.
• Proven track record of implementing process improvements with measurable results.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and workflows.
• Excellent analytical, problem solving and project management skills.
• Effective leadership, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in a hybrid environment (office + remote).
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 quality management systems.
• Based in or willing to relocate to East London, Eastern Cape.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic initiatives for operational excellence.
• Lead Lean and Six Sigma projects to improve efficiency, quality, and cost.
• Identify and eliminate waste in all operational processes.
• Develop and train teams on continuous improvement methodologies.
• Establish and monitor KPIs for operational performance.
• Implement best practices in process control, quality management, and safety.
• Facilitate cross-functional teams to achieve improvement goals.
• Manage the implementation of new operational technologies and systems.
• Conduct regular audits and assessments of operational processes.
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement and employee engagement.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading international automotive components manufacturer, is seeking an experienced Operations Excellence Manager to join their team in East London, Eastern Cape. This role is critical for driving continuous improvement initiatives, optimizing operational efficiency, and fostering a culture of excellence across all manufacturing and operational processes. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and process improvement methodologies, with proven leadership capabilities. You will be instrumental in enhancing productivity, reducing waste, and ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety. This is an excellent opportunity to impact operational performance in a key manufacturing hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic initiatives to drive operational excellence across the organization.
• Lead Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma projects to improve efficiency, quality, and cost.
• Identify and eliminate waste in all operational processes.
• Develop and train teams on continuous improvement methodologies.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for operational performance.
• Implement best practices in process control, quality management, and safety.
• Facilitate cross-functional teams to achieve operational improvement goals.
• Manage the implementation of new operational technologies and systems.
• Conduct regular audits and assessments of operational processes.
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement and employee engagement.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in operations management or continuous improvement, with a focus on Lean and Six Sigma.
• Black Belt or Master Black Belt certification in Six Sigma is required.
• Proven track record of successfully implementing process improvement initiatives and achieving measurable results.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and operational workflows.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Effective leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience working in a hybrid environment, balancing office-based and remote tasks.
• Knowledge of quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001).
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to East London, Eastern Cape.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, an annual performance bonus, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and a provident fund. Opportunities for professional development, including advanced Lean and Six Sigma training, are available. Employees receive 22 days of annual leave. This hybrid role offers the flexibility to manage work effectively. Other benefits include access to onsite facilities and opportunities for career progression within a global manufacturing leader.