Operations Manager - FMCG Manufacturing

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid and retirement fund

Training and development opportunities

Leadership role in FMCG

Growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Operations Manager for a premier FMCG manufacturing site in Klerksdorp, North West. You will lead end‑to‑end production, drive lean improvements, and ensure safety and quality across all shifts.

You will mentor supervisors and align production planning with demand, while managing costs. The role emphasizes operational excellence and measurable performance gains in a dynamic plant.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Operations Management.
• Strong background in FMCG manufacturing operations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily manufacturing operations to meet production targets efficiently and within budget.
• Implement and enforce strict quality control measures throughout production.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma.
• Manage production planning and scheduling to optimize resource utilization and minimize downtime.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of production supervisors and line workers.
• Manage the operational budget, controlling costs and identifying savings opportunities.
• Collaborate with supply chain, maintenance, and engineering to ensure seamless operations.
• Monitor production performance metrics and take corrective actions as needed.
• Foster a culture of safety, quality, and efficiency in the facility.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Problem solving

Team management

Lean/Six Sigma

Continuous improvement

Budgeting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Industrial/Mechanical/Chemical) or Operations Management

Tools

ERP systems

Production planning software

Job description

Our client, a reputable leader in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) manufacturing sector, is actively recruiting for a seasoned Operations Manager. This hands‑on role is based at their state‑of‑the‑art facility in Klerksdorp, North West. The Operations Manager will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the manufacturing process, ensuring efficient production, maintaining high-quality standards, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. This position requires a strong leader with a deep understanding of manufacturing operations, lean methodologies, and health and safety regulations. You will play a critical role in optimizing production output, managing resources effectively, and fostering a productive and safe working environment for the plant team. The role in Klerksdorp is pivotal to the company's manufacturing capabilities in the region. We seek a proactive and detail‑oriented individual committed to operational excellence and driving tangible results.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily manufacturing operations to ensure production targets are met efficiently and within budget.
• Implement and enforce strict quality control measures throughout the production process.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma.
• Manage production planning and scheduling to optimize resource utilization and minimize downtime.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of production supervisors and line workers.
• Manage the operational budget, controlling costs and identifying opportunities for savings.
• Collaborate with supply chain, maintenance, and engineering departments to ensure seamless operations.
• Monitor production performance metrics and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Foster a culture of safety, quality, and efficiency within the manufacturing facility.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, Chemical), Operations Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6-8 years of experience in operations management within a FMCG manufacturing environment.
• Proven track record of improving operational efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing product quality.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, quality control systems, and Lean/Six Sigma principles.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate diverse workforces.
• Excellent problem‑solving, decision‑making, and strategic planning abilities.
• Proficiency in production planning software and ERP systems.
• Strong understanding of health, safety, and environmental regulations in manufacturing.
• Experience in the North West region is a plus.
• Commitment to operational excellence and continuous improvement.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance‑related bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional development.
• A leadership role in a well‑established FMCG manufacturing company.
• Direct impact on production efficiency and quality in Klerksdorp.
• A dynamic and challenging work environment with a focus on growth.