Operations Manager - Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Performance-related bonuses

Private medical care

Substantial retirement plan

Generous leave allowances

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead the Bloemfontein FMCG operations, overseeing manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution to optimize efficiency and deliver high-quality products. The role demands strategic thinking, cost control, and strong leadership to drive continuous improvement.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in operations within FMCG, a relevant degree (MBA preferred), and a track record of managing large teams, optimizing supply chains, and ensuring

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Engineering, or related field.
• MBA or Master's degree is a significant advantage.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in operations management in FMCG.
• Experience leading large teams and complex processes.
• Strong supply chain, logistics, and inventory control knowledge.
• Proven ability to drive cost savings and efficiency improvements.
• Excellent leadership, strategic planning, and decision-making skills.
• Proficient in ERP systems and operations software.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Legal right to work in Bloemfontein, Free State.

Responsibilities

• Oversee manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution operations.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to meet objectives and growth.
• Drive efficiency improvements, cost reductions, and quality enhancements.
• Manage inventory levels to balance stock and holding costs.
• Lead and develop a high-performing operations team.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Manage supplier and logistics partner relationships.
• Implement lean manufacturing principles and best practices.
• Monitor KPIs and report performance to senior management.
• Champion continuous improvement across the operations function.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Decision-making

Communication

Problem-solving

Team management

Change management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration/Operations Management/Engineering

MBA or Master's degree (advantage)

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and rapidly expanding company in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is looking for a results-driven Operations Manager to lead their extensive operations based in Bloemfontein, Free State . This senior leadership position requires a strategic thinker with proven experience in managing large-scale production, supply chain, and logistics operations within a high-volume manufacturing environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for optimizing operational efficiency, driving cost-effectiveness, and ensuring the highest standards of product quality and delivery in Bloemfontein . We are seeking a passionate leader committed to operational excellence and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all aspects of the manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution operations.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to meet company objectives and growth targets.
• Drive efficiency improvements, cost reductions, and quality enhancements across all operational functions.
• Manage inventory levels, ensuring optimal stock availability while minimizing holding costs.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing operations team, fostering a culture of accountability and excellence.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Manage relationships with suppliers and logistics partners to ensure smooth and efficient operations.
• Implement and refine operational procedures and best practices, including lean manufacturing principles.
• Monitor key operational performance indicators (KPIs) and report on performance to senior management.
• Champion continuous improvement initiatives throughout the operations department.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Engineering, or a related field.
• An MBA or Master's degree is a significant advantage.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in operations management, preferably within the FMCG industry.
• Demonstrated success in managing large teams and complex operational processes.
• Strong understanding of supply chain management, logistics, and inventory control.
• Proven ability to drive cost savings and efficiency improvements.
• Excellent leadership, strategic planning, and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in ERP systems and other operational management software.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must have the legal right to work in Bloemfontein, Free State .

Benefits

• an attractive executive salary package
• performance-related bonuses
• private medical care
• a substantial retirement plan
• generous leave allowances

Our client offers an attractive executive salary package, performance-related bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits suite including private medical care, a substantial retirement plan, and generous leave allowances. This role provides significant scope for career advancement within a thriving and expanding FMCG organization. Employees will have the opportunity to shape the future of operations in Bloemfontein and work with a dedicated and professional team. We are committed to employee development through ongoing training and leadership programs. Join a company that values innovation, efficiency, and the well-being of its workforce.