Operations Excellence Specialist

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 680,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Provident fund

Lean Six Sigma training

Job summary

Placements24 in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, is seeking an Operations Excellence Specialist to drive continuous improvement across our manufacturing facilities. You will embed lean thinking, optimise processes, and raise productivity through structured projects and training.

The role requires a solid Industrial Engineering foundation, hands-on Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt required; Black Belt a plus), and strong data analysis skills to deliver measurable gains in efficiency and cost reduction.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or related field required.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification mandatory; Black Belt desirable.
• 4+ years in operations, process improvement in manufacturing.
• Strong data analysis and process-mapping skills essential.
• Experience facilitating Kaizen events and cross-functional projects.
• Excellent communication, presentation and facilitation abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and champion continuous improvement initiatives across operations.
• Apply Lean Six Sigma tools to identify waste and optimise processes.
• Map workflows, analyse processes and identify efficiency/cost gains.
• Develop and monitor performance metrics for improvement programs.
• Facilitate cross-functional Kaizen events and staff training.
• Collaborate with management to set goals aligned to strategy.
• Document best practices and ensure consistent application.
• Support adoption of new technologies and automation where relevant.
• Conduct process audits to identify further enhancement opportunities.

Skills

Kaizen events

Data analysis

Process mapping

Cross-functional collaboration

Training delivery

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt

Tools

Excel

Minitab

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the automotive supply chain industry, is actively seeking an Operations Excellence Specialist to drive continuous improvement initiatives within their manufacturing facilities. This role is crucial for optimising operational efficiency, enhancing productivity, and embedding a culture of excellence throughout the organisation. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in industrial engineering principles, process analysis, and a proven ability to implement successful improvement projects. This exciting opportunity is based in **Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape**, a significant automotive manufacturing hub in South Africa. Our client is dedicated to fostering a lean and efficient operating model, offering a stimulating environment for professionals who are passionate about operational improvement and innovation. This position offers considerable scope for impact and professional development within a supportive and forward-looking company.

Key Responsibilities

• Champion and lead continuous improvement initiatives across all operational areas.
• Utilise Lean Six Sigma methodologies (e.g., Kaizen, VSM, 5S) to identify and eliminate waste.
• Analyse current processes, map workflows, and identify opportunities for efficiency gains and cost reduction.
• Develop, implement, and monitor performance metrics to track the effectiveness of improvement initiatives.
• Facilitate cross-functional workshops and Kaizen events to drive problem-solving and innovation.
• Develop and deliver training programs on operational excellence principles and tools to employees at all levels.
• Collaborate with management to establish operational goals and strategies aligned with company objectives.
• Document best practices and ensure their consistent application across the organisation.
• Support the implementation of new technologies and automation solutions to enhance operational performance.
• Conduct process audits to ensure compliance and identify further improvement opportunities in **Port Elizabeth**.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.
• A minimum of 4 years of experience in operations, process improvement, or a similar role within a manufacturing environment.
• Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt required; Black Belt certification is highly desirable.
• Strong proficiency in process mapping, data analysis, and statistical tools (e.g., Excel, Minitab).
• Demonstrated experience in facilitating Kaizen events and leading improvement projects.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and facilitation skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with diverse teams.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes and quality systems.
• A proactive approach to identifying and solving problems.
• Candidates based in or near **Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape** are preferred.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package, negotiable based on experience and qualifications.
• Potential for annual performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid options and provident fund.
• Opportunities for advanced Lean Six Sigma training and certification.
• Paid leave and company-observed holidays.
• Exposure to diverse manufacturing challenges and innovative solutions.
• A supportive and collaborative work culture in the **Eastern Cape**.
• Career development prospects within a stable and growing organisation.