Operations Excellence Manager

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonuses

Medical aid and retirement fund

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Polokwane is seeking an experienced Operations Excellence Manager to drive continuous improvement and optimize processes across the organization. Based in Polokwane, this role focuses on reducing waste, enhancing efficiency, and embedding data-driven decision-making.

The ideal candidate will lead Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen initiatives, mentor staff, and collaborate with department heads to align improvements with business goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Admin, Operations Management or related field.
• Minimum 6 years in operations management with a focus on process improvement.
• Experience implementing Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies.
• Proven cross-functional leadership and project management.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and training abilities.
• Change management experience is essential.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategies for operational excellence.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen.
• Analyze processes to identify inefficiencies and design improvements.
• Develop and track KPIs related to efficiency and quality.
• Train and mentor staff on operational excellence tools.
• Manage change initiatives and ensure adoption of new processes.
• Collaborate with department heads to align improvements with goals.
• Conduct process audits and identify further opportunities.
• Promote a culture of data-driven decision-making and problem-solving.
• Prepare reports and presentations on progress and impact.

Skills

Lean methodologies

Six Sigma

Kaizen

Change management

Team leadership

Data analysis

Process improvement

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and strategic Operations Excellence Manager to drive continuous improvement and optimize operational processes within their organization. This vital role, based in Polokwane , is responsible for leading initiatives that enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve overall performance across all operational functions. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in lean methodologies, process re-engineering, and change management. They will work closely with various teams to embed a culture of excellence and data-driven decision-making. This is a significant opportunity to shape operational strategies and contribute to sustainable growth in the Limpopo region. We are looking for a proactive leader with a passion for optimization and a proven ability to implement impactful improvements. Our client values individuals who can foster collaboration and drive positive change, ensuring the highest standards of operational output. This position is crucial for maintaining competitive advantage.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategies to achieve operational excellence across the organization.
• Lead and facilitate continuous improvement initiatives using methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen.
• Analyze current operational processes, identify inefficiencies, and design solutions for improvement.
• Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to operational efficiency and quality.
• Train and mentor staff on operational excellence principles and tools.
• Manage change initiatives and ensure successful adoption of new processes.
• Collaborate with department heads to align operational improvement efforts with business goals.
• Conduct process audits and assessments to ensure compliance and identify further opportunities.
• Promote a culture of data-driven decision-making and problem-solving.
• Prepare reports and presentations on the progress and impact of operational excellence programs.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field. A Master's degree is a plus.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in operations management or a related field, with a strong focus on process improvement and operational excellence.
• Proven experience in implementing Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex projects.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication, facilitation, and training abilities.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools and operational metrics.
• Experience in change management is essential.
• Ability to work collaboratively across different levels of the organization.
• A proactive and results-oriented mindset.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• A comprehensive benefits package includes medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and paid time off.
• Opportunities for professional development and certifications in operational excellence methodologies are provided.
• This role is based in Polokwane , Limpopo , offering a supportive and dynamic work environment.
• Join a company committed to innovation and operational efficiency.