Operations Executive - Food Extrusion

Mayfly Agri (Pty) Ltd; Pietermaritzburg; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural company based in Pietermaritzburg seeks a highly experienced Senior Operations Manager. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Operations Management and at least 8–10 years of experience in a senior operations role. Responsibilities include managing plant operations, ensuring compliance with food safety standards, and leading cross-functional teams. The role demands excellent leadership, problem-solving, and organizational skills.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8–10 years’ experience in senior operations role.
• Must be a legally appointed GMR 2.1 and 16.2 responsible person.
• Manufacturing experience, preferably in extrusion, is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day plant operations across three sites.
• Ensure efficient, cost-effective, and legally compliant processes.
• Lead and develop cross-functional operational teams.

Skills

Organisational skills

Strategic management

Leadership abilities

Critical thinking

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Supply Chain, Engineering, or related field

Job description

Minimum requirements for the role :

• Must have a Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Supply Chain, Engineering, or a related field
• Minimum 8–10 years’ experience within a senior operations role
• Must be a legally appointed GMR 2.1 and 16.2 responsible person
• Manufacturing experience, preferably in extrusion, is advantageous
• Must have a proven track record in food safety, compliance, and people leadership
• Ability to ensure compliance with food and health safety standards
• Strong organisational, strategic, and financial management skills
• Excellent leadership and interpersonal abilities with a high level of computer proficiency
• Critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
• Ability to be effective under pressure and in unstructured environments
• Excellent communication and time management skills with an ethical and results-driven mindset

The successful candidate will be responsible for :

• Managing day-to-day plant operations across three sites
• Ensuring efficient, cost-effective, and legally compliant processes
• Leading and developing cross-functional operational teams
• Developing and managing production and Capex budgets
• Analyzing financial data to improve profitability
• Coordinating inventory, materials, warehouse, and dispatch functions
• Overseeing quality control and production KPIs
• Ensuring compliance with food safety (FSSC 22000) and SHEQ standards
• Leading continuous improvement and strategic projects
• Performing market and competitor analysis
• Reporting regularly to top management

Please note that subsequent to the screening and shortlisting process, all further communication will be entered into only with the shortlisted candidates.