Operations Manager – FMCG – Gauteng (Ref 10026)

SMARTNETWORK (SMARTPLACEMENTS); Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

SMARTNETWORK (SMARTPLACEMENTS) is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee day-to-day operations across production, warehousing, logistics and dispatch within a food manufacturing and distribution environment.

The role focuses on achieving production targets, driving efficiency, reducing costs, and ensuring quality and safety standards are met. Strong leadership and ERP/stock management system experience are essential for managing inventory, planning, and performance across multiple departments.

Qualifications

• Experience in FMCG operations within food manufacturing, processing or production environments.
• Proven leadership and people management experience in fast-paced settings.
• Experience managing production, warehousing and distribution functions.
• Understanding of food safety and quality standards and compliance.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily production, warehousing, logistics and dispatch activities across the business.
• Ensure production targets are met while maintaining quality standards.
• Monitor efficiencies and identify areas for continuous improvement.
• Develop and implement operational policies and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with company standards and food industry regulations.

Skills

Operations Management

FMCG Experience

Food Manufacturing

Production Management

Warehouse Management

Distribution and Logistics

Inventory Control

Continuous Improvement

Budget Control

Staff Leadership

Problem Solving

Process Optimisation

Quality Management

Planning and Organising

Performance Management

Tools

ERP Systems

Stock Management Software

Job description

Job Purpose

The Operations Manager will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the food manufacturing and distribution business, ensuring efficient production, quality control, stock management, warehousing, logistics, and team performance. The successful candidate will drive operational excellence, improve productivity, reduce costs, and ensure customer requirements are consistently met.

Minimum Requirements

• Proven Operations Management experience within the FMCG industry
• Experience within food manufacturing, food processing, or food production environments
• Strong leadership and people management experience
• Experience managing production, warehousing, and distribution functions
• Understanding of food safety and quality standards
• Experience with stock control and inventory management
• Ability to analyse operational performance and implement improvements
• Computer literate with experience using ERP or stock management systems
• Valid driver’s licence
• No formal degree required
• Relevant industry experience is essential

Key Responsibilities

Operational Management

• Oversee all daily operational activities across production, warehousing, logistics, and dispatch
• Ensure production targets are achieved while maintaining quality standards
• Monitor operational efficiencies and identify areas for continuous improvement
• Develop and implement operational policies and procedures
• Ensure compliance with company standards and food industry regulations

Production Management

• Manage production schedules and resource planning
• Ensure optimal machine and labour utilisation
• Minimise downtime and production losses
• Monitor product quality and reduce waste

Stock and Warehouse Management

• Oversee inventory control and stock accuracy
• Manage stock movements and warehouse operations
• Ensure stock counts and reconciliations are completed accurately
• Reduce stock losses and improve inventory turnover

Logistics and Distribution

• Manage dispatch and delivery operations
• Ensure customer orders are fulfilled accurately and on time
• Monitor route efficiencies and transport costs
• Improve service delivery levels

Staff Management

• Lead and manage operational teams
• Conduct performance management and staff development
• Drive a culture of accountability, productivity, and teamwork
• Ensure adherence to company policies and procedures

Health, Safety and Compliance

• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations
• Maintain food safety and quality standards
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives and best practices

Key Skills and Competencies

• Operations Management
• FMCG Experience
• Food Manufacturing
• Production Management
• Warehouse Management
• Distribution and Logistics
• Inventory Control
• Continuous Improvement
• Budget Control
• Staff Leadership
• Problem Solving
• Process Optimisation
• Quality Management
• Planning and Organising
• Performance Management

Preferred Experience

• 5+ years’ Operations Management experience within FMCG
• Food manufacturing or food processing experience
• Experience managing multiple operational departments
• Proven track record of improving efficiencies and reducing costs

Remuneration

Market-related, depending on experience and proven track record.