Operations Manager - Automotive Sector

Placements24; Randburg; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Retirement fund

Paid vacation

Training & development

Employee wellness program

Career progression opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting an experienced Operations Manager for our client, a leading Tier 1 automotive supplier, at its Randburg facility in Gauteng. You will lead manufacturing and operational activities, drive production efficiency, ensure quality output, and manage costs while mentoring supervisors and frontline teams.

The role requires deep knowledge of lean manufacturing, JIT, Six Sigma, and MES/ERP systems, with a track record of continuous improvement, budget control, and safe,

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive experience in operations management within automotive manufacturing.
• Proven leadership of production facilities and teams in Gauteng region.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement.
• Experience with MES and ERP software; familiarity with IATF 16949.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily manufacturing operations to meet production targets, quality, and delivery schedules.
• Lead and develop production supervisors and staff, fostering high performance and safety.
• Implement lean manufacturing principles and CI initiatives to boost efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with IATF 16949 and safety/environmental regulations.
• Manage departmental budgets and control expenditures.
• Collaborate with engineering, QA, supply chain, and maintenance to resolve issues.
• Monitor KPIs for production, efficiency, safety, quality; take corrective actions.
• Drive safety and well-being initiatives on the production floor.
• Manage inventory and material flow to support scheduling.
• Participate in capacity planning and technology upgrades.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Continuous improvement

Team management

Budgeting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial) or related field

Tools

MES

ERP software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading Tier 1 automotive supplier, is seeking a seasoned Operations Manager to lead its manufacturing and operational activities at its facility in Randburg , Gauteng . This role is critical for driving production efficiency, ensuring high-quality output, and managing operational costs within a competitive automotive manufacturing landscape. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership capabilities, a deep understanding of automotive manufacturing processes (e.g., JIT, Lean), and a proven track record of operational excellence. You will be responsible for managing production teams, optimizing workflows, and implementing continuous improvement initiatives to maintain the company's market position. This is an excellent opportunity for a dedicated operations professional to make a substantial impact within a key industrial region.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of daily manufacturing operations, ensuring production targets, quality standards, and delivery schedules are met consistently.
• Lead, mentor, and develop production supervisors and operational staff, fostering a culture of high performance and safety.
• Implement and manage lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve overall productivity.
• Ensure strict adherence to quality management systems (e.g., IATF 16949) and all relevant safety and environmental regulations.
• Manage departmental budgets, control operational expenditures, and optimize resource allocation for maximum efficiency.
• Collaborate closely with engineering, quality assurance, supply chain, and maintenance departments to resolve operational issues and drive improvements.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for production, efficiency, safety, and quality, implementing corrective actions as needed.
• Drive initiatives to improve workplace safety and employee well-being on the production floor.
• Manage inventory levels and material flow to support efficient production scheduling.
• Participate in strategic planning for capacity, technology upgrades, and new product introductions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial), Operations Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in operations management within the automotive manufacturing sector.
• Demonstrated experience in leading teams and managing production facilities in the Gauteng region.
• In-depth knowledge of lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong understanding of automotive quality standards (e.g., IATF 16949).
• Proven ability to manage budgets, control costs, and drive operational efficiency.
• Excellent leadership, communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Experience with manufacturing execution systems (MES) and ERP software.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe and high-quality work environment.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to work extended hours as needed.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of R . Performance-based bonus scheme.
• Comprehensive medical and dental insurance.
• Generous retirement fund contribution.
• Paid vacation and company holidays.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional development.
• Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.
• Potential for career progression within a global organization.
• A challenging and rewarding work environment.