Operations Manager - FMCG Manufacturing

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Operations Manager for a major FMCG facility in Bloemfontein. You will lead manufacturing operations, drive lean initiatives, ensure quality and safety, and optimize cost efficiency to meet production targets.

You will oversee planning, scheduling, budgeting, and team development, collaborating with maintenance, engineering, and supply chain to sustain continuous improvement and operational excellence on site.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration or related field.
• At least 7 years of experience in manufacturing operations management in FMCG.
• Proven track record of improving operational efficiency and reducing costs.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing and Six Sigma.
• Experience with MES and ERP systems.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day manufacturing operations, ensuring targets are met efficiently.
• Implement lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Manage production planning and scheduling to optimize resources and minimize downtime.
• Ensure strict quality control standards and implement corrective actions.
• Develop and manage the plant budget, controlling costs and profitability.
• Lead, mentor, and develop production supervisors and staff.
• Ensure health, safety, and environmental regulations are followed.
• Collaborate with supply chain, maintenance, and engineering for seamless operations.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and new technologies to boost efficiency.
• Monitor KPIs and report performance to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Problem solving

Analytical thinking

Change management

Team management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or related field

Tools

MES

ERP software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent and well-established Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) manufacturer, is seeking a highly capable and experienced Operations Manager to oversee their production facility. This crucial role, based in Bloemfontein, Free State , involves managing all aspects of the manufacturing process to ensure efficient, high-quality, and cost-effective production. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in manufacturing operations, a deep understanding of lean principles and quality control, and exceptional leadership skills. You will be responsible for driving operational excellence, optimizing production output, and ensuring the safety and well-being of the workforce.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all day-to-day manufacturing operations, ensuring production targets are met efficiently and on schedule.
• Implement and maintain lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Manage production planning and scheduling to optimize resource utilization and minimize downtime.
• Ensure adherence to strict quality control standards and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Develop and manage the plant's operational budget, controlling costs and maximizing profitability.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a diverse team of production supervisors and staff.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with supply chain, maintenance, and engineering departments to ensure seamless operations.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement new technologies to enhance efficiency.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and report on operational performance to senior management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in manufacturing operations management, with a strong focus on the FMCG sector.
• Proven track record of improving operational efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing product quality.
• In-depth knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong leadership, team management, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent understanding of health, safety, and environmental regulations in a manufacturing setting.
• Experience with production planning, scheduling, and inventory management.
• Proficiency in manufacturing execution systems (MES) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) software.
• Strong analytical and decision-making capabilities.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Bloemfontein, Free State .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, comprehensive medical aid, a retirement fund, and excellent opportunities for career advancement within a stable and growing manufacturing organization. You will have the satisfaction of leading operations in Bloemfontein , contributing directly to the production of widely recognized FMCG products. This role demands a consistent on-site presence to effectively manage the factory floor and its teams.