Operations Manager (Engineering)

Fides Recruitment; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Job summary

A global leader in transportation and infrastructure solutions is seeking an Operations Manager in Johannesburg. This exciting opportunity involves overseeing daily operations, improving efficiency, and leading a high-performance team to ensure operational excellence while maintaining safety and quality standards. With a competitive salary and the chance to make an impact, this role is perfect for those with extensive experience in a heavy industry setting.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years' experience in operations management.
• At least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of operations including production, supply chain, quality, maintenance, and health & safety.
• Develop and execute operational strategies to meet business objectives.
• Lead and manage cross-functional teams.

Skills

Manufacturing

Engineering

Automotive

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, or a related field

Postgraduate qualification in Business Administration, Engineering, or Management (e.g., MBA)

Tools

Lean

Six Sigma

Job description

Position open to all races.

Company Overview:

A global leader in providing innovative, technology-driven solutions in the transportation and infrastructure sectors. We are committed to quality, safety, and operational excellence. Our team in Johannesburg is a dynamic part of our operations, and we are looking for a highly skilled and motivated Operations Manager to join us and help maintain and elevate our quality standards across all aspects of the business.

Position Summary:
The Operations Manager will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Kempton Park facility, ensuring optimal performance across manufacturing, production, maintenance, logistics, and support functions. The successful candidate will drive operational efficiency, safety, quality, and cost control, while also contributing to strategic business planning and execution.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Management

• Oversee all aspects of operations including production, supply chain, quality, maintenance, and health & safety.
• Develop and execute operational strategies to meet business objectives and customer requirements.
• Monitor KPIs, implement corrective actions, and ensure achievement of operational targets.

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, motivate, and manage cross-functional teams to achieve performance excellence.
• Build a high-performance culture focused on continuous improvement, accountability, and collaboration.
• Identify training and development needs to strengthen team capability.

Production & Efficiency

• Ensure production schedules are met and customer orders are fulfilled on time and within budget.
• Optimize plant layout, equipment utilization, and workforce productivity.
• Drive lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.

Cost Control & Budgeting

• Prepare and manage operational budgets, including cost control and resource allocation.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities across operations without compromising quality or safety.
• Ensure financial discipline and reporting in alignment with corporate standards.

Quality, Health & Safety

• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and quality (HSEQ) standards.
• Promote a culture of safety and ensure all operations adhere to legal and regulatory requirements.
• Support quality assurance initiatives to maintain product and service excellence.

Strategic Planning & Execution

• Collaborate with senior leadership on business strategy, forecasting, and capacity planning.
• Support the integration of global systems, processes, and performance standards.
• Participate in long-term investment and operational planning.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Liaise with internal departments including engineering, procurement, sales, and finance to ensure smooth operational coordination.
• Build strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and service providers to support operational excellence.
• Represent operations in senior leadership meetings and reporting.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years' experience in operations or manufacturing management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Experience in heavy industry, engineering, rail, mining, or manufacturing environments.
• Strong understanding of production planning, supply chain, lean principles, and quality systems.
• Financial and budget management experience.
• Postgraduate qualification in Business Administration, Engineering, or Management (e.g., MBA).
• Certifications in Lean, Six Sigma, or similar continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Strategic thinker with a hands-on approach to problem-solving.
• High level of resilience, adaptability, and decision-making ability.
• Excellent organizational and planning capabilities.
• Data-driven, analytical mindset with a focus on performance improvement.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence.

Desired Skills:

• Manufacturing
• Engineering
• Automotive

Desired Work Experience:

• More than 10 years

About The Employer:

A global leader in providing innovative, technology-driven solutions in the transportation and infrastructure sectors.