Operations Manager - Chemical Manufacturing

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Retirement contributions

Relocation assistance

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Operations Manager for a prominent chemical manufacturing client in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. You will lead all manufacturing operations, drive safety and regulatory compliance, and push for operational excellence across a complex facility.

This role blends strategic oversight with hands-on leadership to optimize production, quality, and cost control. The ideal candidate has 8+ years in chemical operations, an engineering degree (MBA a plus), and a

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Industrial Engineering.
• MBA or Master's degree is a strong advantage.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in operations management within the chemical manufacturing industry.
• Proven experience in managing large-scale manufacturing facilities and diverse teams.
• In-depth knowledge of chemical process operations, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance (e.g., COMAH, environmental permits).
• Strong understanding of financial management, budgeting, and cost control.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated success in implementing continuous improvement programs (e.g., Six Sigma, Lean).
• Experience with ERP systems and manufacturing execution systems (MES).
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing remote oversight with on-site presence.

Responsibilities

• Direct daily manufacturing operations, including production planning, scheduling, and execution.
• Ensure health, safety and environmental compliance.
• Develop strategies to cut costs and boost product quality.
• Lead production teams with coaching and performance reviews.
• Manage plant budget, resources and CAPEX plans.
• Collaborate with supply chain, maintenance and engineering teams.
• Promote lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Monitor KPIs and take corrective actions where needed.
• Oversee raw materials, inventory and finished goods.
• Foster a strong safety culture for all staff.

Skills

Leadership

Operational Excellence

Lean manufacturing

Safety compliance

ERP knowledge

Production planning

Team management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

MBA or Master's degree

Tools

ERP systems

MES

Budgeting software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent chemical manufacturing company, is seeking an experienced and strategic Operations Manager to lead their operations in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This pivotal role will oversee all aspects of the manufacturing facility, ensuring efficient production, strict adherence to safety and environmental regulations, and the achievement of operational excellence. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership capabilities, a deep understanding of chemical processes, and a proven track record in driving operational improvements and managing complex teams. This position requires a blend of strategic thinking and hands‑on management to optimize performance and foster a culture of safety and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and direct all day‑to‑day manufacturing operations, including production planning, scheduling, and execution.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, environmental (HSE), and regulatory standards.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product quality.
• Oversee the management of production teams, providing leadership, guidance, and performance evaluations.
• Manage the plant's budget, resources, and capital expenditure plans.
• Collaborate with supply chain, maintenance, and engineering departments to ensure smooth operations.
• Implement and promote lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Ensure the effective management of raw materials, inventory, and finished goods.
• Foster a strong safety culture and ensure the well‑being of all employees.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field.
• An MBA or Master's degree is a strong advantage.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in operations management within the chemical manufacturing industry.
• Proven experience in managing large‑scale manufacturing facilities and diverse teams.
• In‑depth knowledge of chemical process operations, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance (e.g., COMAH, environmental permits).
• Strong understanding of financial management, budgeting, and cost control.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated success in implementing continuous improvement programs (e.g., Six Sigma, Lean).
• Experience with ERP systems and manufacturing execution systems (MES).
• Strong problem‑solving and decision‑making abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing remote oversight with on‑site presence.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, a generous bonus structure, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical insurance, retirement contributions, and relocation assistance if needed.
• The company supports professional development and provides opportunities for career advancement within a growing organization.