Operations Manager - FMCG

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Operations Manager to oversee FMCG operations in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. You will manage production planning, warehousing, and distribution, ensuring quality, safety, and on-time delivery.

Lead a large operations team, drive continuous improvement, and collaborate with sales, procurement and QA. A strong background in ERP systems and Lean/Six Sigma is highly valued for optimizing performance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in operations management, industrial engineering, business administration, or related field.
• 7–9 years of FMCG operations management experience.
• Experience with ERP systems; knowledge of Lean/Six Sigma is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Oversee production planning, manufacturing, warehousing, inventory, and logistics.
• Ensure quality control and regulatory compliance in FMCG operations.
• Develop strategies to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and boost productivity.
• Lead and develop a high-performance operations team with focus on safety.
• Monitor KPIs and implement corrective actions to meet targets.
• Oversee maintenance of equipment and facilities.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

Tools

ERP software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent and rapidly growing Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) company, is seeking an experienced and results-driven Operations Manager to oversee its operations in the Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape region. This role is pivotal in ensuring the efficient and cost-effective production, warehousing, and distribution of our client's extensive product range. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in FMCG operations, with a proven ability to optimize processes, manage large teams, and drive continuous improvement. You will be responsible for the day-to-day management of operational activities, ensuring quality standards, safety compliance, and timely delivery to meet market demands. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the success of a leading brand within the dynamic Port Elizabeth business environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and optimize all operational functions, including production planning, manufacturing, warehousing, inventory management, and logistics.
• Ensure adherence to stringent quality control standards and regulatory compliance within the FMCG sector.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve productivity.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of operational staff, fostering a high-performance culture and promoting safety awareness.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions to achieve operational targets.
• Oversee the maintenance and upkeep of operational equipment and facilities.
• Manage operational budgets and ensure cost-effective resource allocation.
• Collaborate with sales, procurement, and quality assurance departments to ensure seamless operations.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using methodologies such as Lean or Six Sigma.
• Ensure timely and accurate fulfillment of customer orders, maintaining high service levels.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7-9 years of progressive experience in operations management, specifically within the FMCG industry.
• Demonstrated success in managing production, warehousing, and logistics operations.
• Strong understanding of FMCG market dynamics, supply chain principles, and quality management systems.
• Proven leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop staff.
• Experience with ERP systems and operational management software.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with the Port Elizabeth industrial landscape is an advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including performance bonuses, medical aid, and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a growing organization are available.
• This role offers a hybrid work model, providing a balance between on-site operational oversight and remote administrative tasks, contributing to a healthy work-life balance in Port Elizabeth .