Operations Manager - FMCG Manufacturing

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Performance-based bonus

Private medical insurance

Retirement fund

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, seeks an experienced Operations Manager to lead the FMCG manufacturing facility, driving production planning, lean initiatives, and safety culture while managing a high-performing team.

The role requires 7+ years in manufacturing operations with leadership, ERP/MES proficiency, and a track record of cost optimization and quality improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field; Master's preferred.
• 7+ years in manufacturing operations management with 3+ years in leadership.
• Lean, Six Sigma, and CI methodologies knowledge.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Experience with ERP and MES systems.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day manufacturing operations and meet production targets.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve productivity and reduce costs.
• Ensure health, safety, and environmental regulations compliance.
• Lead and develop an operations team including supervisors and production staff.
• Drive lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Manage production budget and resource allocation.
• Oversee inventory management of materials and finished goods.
• Collaborate with procurement, QA, and maintenance for seamless operations.
• Oversee equipment maintenance and facility upkeep.
• Instill culture of safety, quality, and operational excellence.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor's in Engineering

Master's degree advantageous

Tools

ERP systems

MES

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading and rapidly expanding Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) manufacturer, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Operations Manager to oversee its production facilities. This critical role, based in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga , is responsible for ensuring the efficient, safe, and cost-effective operation of the manufacturing plant, driving productivity, and maintaining the highest standards of quality. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in manufacturing operations management, a deep understanding of lean principles and continuous improvement methodologies, and exceptional leadership capabilities. You will play a vital role in optimizing production processes, managing resources, and leading a dedicated team to achieve ambitious operational goals. This is an outstanding opportunity to lead significant manufacturing operations within a thriving FMCG organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all day-to-day manufacturing operations, ensuring production targets are met efficiently and to the highest quality standards.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to improve productivity, reduce costs, and enhance overall plant performance.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and environmental regulations within the manufacturing facility.
• Manage and develop a high-performing operations team, including supervisors and production staff.
• Implement and champion lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives (e.g., Six Sigma).
• Manage the production budget, controlling costs and optimizing resource allocation.
• Ensure effective inventory management of raw materials and finished goods.
• Collaborate with procurement, quality assurance, and maintenance departments to ensure seamless operations.
• Oversee equipment maintenance and facility upkeep to minimize downtime.
• Drive a culture of safety, quality, and operational excellence throughout the plant.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, Chemical), Operations Management, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is advantageous.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in manufacturing operations management, with at least 3 years in a leadership role, preferably within the FMCG sector .
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale manufacturing operations and driving operational improvements.
• In-depth knowledge of lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Excellent understanding of health, safety, and quality standards in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience with production planning, inventory management, and supply chain principles.
• Proficiency in ERP systems and manufacturing execution systems (MES).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Reside in or be willing to relocate to Nelspruit, Mpumalanga .

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package, commensurate with experience and proven leadership.
• Significant performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive private medical insurance and retirement fund.
• Generous annual leave and company-paid holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and training in advanced manufacturing techniques.
• Relocation assistance may be considered.
• A key leadership role within a growing FMCG manufacturing company based in Nelspruit .
• Company-provided tools and resources to ensure operational success.