Operations Manager - Agricultural Processing

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package with bonus

Comprehensive medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development opportunities

Opportunity to lead critical ops in a/

Growing sector impact

Job summary

Placements24 in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, is seeking an Operations Manager to lead a food processing plant. You will oversee production, ensure quality and safety, manage budgets, and drive continuous improvement across the operation.

The candidate should have a Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or related field and at least 6 years in operations management with 3+ years in processing. Based in Mossel Bay, you will guide a diverse team and liaise with QA and supply chains.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Agricultural Science, Operations Management, or related field.
• At least 6 years of operations management experience, with 3+ years in agricultural processing or food manufacturing.
• Experience with production processes, quality control, and staff supervision in a processing plant.
• Strong knowledge of HACCP and GMP food safety standards.
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in operations software and basic financial management.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Based in Mossel Bay, Western Cape or willing to relocate.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operations of the agricultural processing plant, ensuring smooth production flow.
• Oversee quality control procedures to meet high industry standards for all products.
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance operational efficiency and reduce waste.
• Manage inventory of raw materials and finished goods, ensuring adequate supply and minimizing spoilage.
• Lead, train, and motivate a diverse team of plant employees, fostering a culture of safety and productivity.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and environmental regulations relevant to food processing.
• Manage operational budgets and control costs effectively.
• Oversee maintenance and upkeep of plant machinery and equipment.
• Liaise with suppliers, quality assurance teams, and distribution channels.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to optimize production processes.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Problem-solving

Communication

Decision-making

Quality assurance

HACCP knowledge

GMP knowledge

Safety awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Food Science / Agricultural Science / Operations Management

Tools

Operations management software

Basic financial management

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading enterprise in agricultural processing, is seeking a dedicated and experienced Operations Manager to lead their facility in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This crucial role involves overseeing all aspects of the processing plant's operations, from raw material intake to finished product dispatch, ensuring optimal efficiency, quality, and safety. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in food processing or a related agricultural industry, combined with robust management and leadership skills. You will be instrumental in driving productivity, managing resources effectively, and ensuring compliance with stringent industry standards. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the success of a vital sector in a beautiful coastal region. The role requires a hands‑on approach to managing daily operations, leading a dedicated workforce, and implementing continuous improvement initiatives to maintain a competitive edge in the market. Your strategic input will be vital for streamlining processes and enhancing the overall operational performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operations of the agricultural processing plant, ensuring smooth production flow.
• Oversee quality control procedures to meet high industry standards for all products.
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance operational efficiency and reduce waste.
• Manage inventory of raw materials and finished goods, ensuring adequate supply and minimizing spoilage.
• Lead, train, and motivate a diverse team of plant employees, fostering a culture of safety and productivity.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and environmental regulations relevant to food processing.
• Manage operational budgets and control costs effectively.
• Oversee maintenance and upkeep of plant machinery and equipment.
• Liaise with suppliers, quality assurance teams, and distribution channels.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to optimize production processes.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Agricultural Science, Operations Management, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in operations management, with at least 3 years in the agricultural processing or food manufacturing industry.
• Proven experience in managing production processes, quality control, and staff supervision in a processing plant environment.
• Strong understanding of food safety standards (e.g., HACCP, GMP).
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Proficiency in operations management software and basic financial management.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a demanding production environment.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Mossel Bay, Western Cape .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, reflecting the importance of this role, with potential for performance-based bonuses.
• The benefits include comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development and learning new processing technologies are available.
• This role provides the chance to lead critical operations in a growing sector and contribute to the local economy.
• Employees join a supportive team environment and a company committed to quality and sustainability.