Operations Manager - FMCG Manufacturing

Placements24; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Career progression opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead a large FMCG plant in Tembisa, Gauteng. This senior role drives strategic planning, lean improvements, cost control, safety, and production excellence across the facility.

You will mentor production teams, coordinate with supply chain, and implement best practices to sustain high‑quality output while maximizing efficiency. A track record in managing complex manufacturing operations and delivering results is essential; hybrid

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in operations leadership within FMCG manufacturing.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale manufacturing operations.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Excellent leadership, strategic planning and decision‑making skills.
• Experience managing budgets and controlling costs.
• Familiarity with food safety standards (HACCP, GMP) is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to meet production goals and cost targets.
• Oversee day‑to‑day manufacturing operations including scheduling and resource allocation.
• Lead and mentor the operations team to sustain a high‑performance culture.
• Implement lean manufacturing principles to improve efficiency and reduce waste.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, environmental regulations and policies.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and identify savings opportunities without compromising quality.
• Collaborate with supply chain, procurement and sales to ensure seamless operations.
• Drive process and technology innovation to maintain competitive edge.
• Monitor KPIs, analyze data, and report performance to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Decision making

Budgeting

Stakeholder management

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/related field

Tools

GMP

HACCP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) manufacturing sector, is looking for an experienced and results-driven Operations Manager to lead their plant operations in **Tembisa, Gauteng**. This senior leadership position is critical for driving operational excellence, ensuring the efficient production of high-quality goods, and managing all aspects of the manufacturing facility. The successful candidate will be responsible for strategic planning, process optimization, cost control, and fostering a culture of safety and continuous improvement. This role demands a strategic thinker with a proven track record in managing complex manufacturing operations and leading large teams. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of our client's production capabilities in **Tembisa, Gauteng** region. This is an opportunity to significantly influence operational strategy and execution for a key manufacturing site.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to meet production goals, quality standards, and cost targets.
• Oversee all day-to-day manufacturing operations, including production scheduling, resource allocation, and workflow management.
• Lead and mentor the operations team, including production supervisors, engineers, and line staff, promoting a high-performance culture.
• Implement and continuously improve lean manufacturing principles and best practices to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
• Ensure strict adherence to all safety, health, and environmental regulations and company policies.
• Manage budgets, control operational costs, and identify opportunities for cost savings without compromising quality or safety.
• Collaborate with supply chain, procurement, and sales departments to ensure seamless operations from raw material sourcing to finished product delivery.
• Drive innovation in manufacturing processes and technology adoption to maintain a competitive edge.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), analyze operational data, and report on performance to senior management.

Requirements

• Extensive experience in operations management within the FMCG manufacturing industry.
• Demonstrated success in leading and managing large-scale manufacturing operations.
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Excellent leadership, strategic planning, and decision-making skills.
• Proven ability to manage budgets and control operational costs effectively.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety standards and regulatory compliance (e.g., HACCP, GMP) is highly desirable.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field.
• Willingness to work a hybrid schedule and be present at the **Tembisa, Gauteng** facility as required.

Benefits

A highly competitive salary package, comprehensive medical aid, and retirement fund contributions are offered. Our client provides significant opportunities for career progression, access to advanced training programs, and a challenging yet rewarding work environment. You will be part of a company committed to innovation and operational excellence in the dynamic FMCG sector.