Operations Manager - FMCG Manufacturing

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement provisions

Professional development

Executive leadership role

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting an experienced Operations Manager for an FMCG production facility in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will lead the site, drive continuous improvement, manage planning and budgets, ensure quality and safety, and lead a large workforce to deliver efficient production.

The role requires strong leadership with a proven track record in Lean/Six Sigma, MES/ERP systems, and delivering cost-effective operations in a fast-moving environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field.
• 7–10 years of FMCG manufacturing operations management.
• Lean/Six Sigma experience and certification preferred.
• Experience with MES/ERP systems.

Responsibilities

• Oversee manufacturing operations planning, scheduling, and execution.
• Ensure quality control standards and safety compliance.
• Manage budgets and drive cost efficiency.
• Lead and develop production teams.
• Drive continuous improvement via Lean/Six Sigma.
• Coordinate with supply chain, R&D, and sales.
• Monitor KPIs and report on performance.

Skills

Leadership

Manufacturing operations

Lean Six Sigma

MES/ERP knowledge

Quality systems ISO HACCP

Budget management

Team management

Education

Engineering degree (Mechanical/Industrial/Chemical) or related

Tools

MES software

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a well-established and expanding player in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) manufacturing sector, is seeking an experienced and strategic Operations Manager to lead their production facility in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This role is crucial for ensuring efficient, high-quality production output, managing operational costs, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in manufacturing operations, a deep understanding of FMCG production processes, and exceptional leadership skills to manage a large workforce. This is a vital position for maintaining and enhancing our client's operational excellence in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of the manufacturing operations, including production planning, scheduling, and execution.
• Ensure adherence to stringent quality control standards and safety regulations.
• Manage operational budgets, control costs, and identify opportunities for efficiency gains.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the production and operations team.
• Implement and drive continuous improvement initiatives (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma).
• Manage equipment maintenance and ensure optimal plant utilization.
• Collaborate with supply chain, R&D, and sales departments to align production with demand.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and report on operational performance.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and sustainability practices.
• Foster a positive and productive work environment within the manufacturing facility.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, Chemical), Operations Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in manufacturing operations management, with a significant portion in the FMCG industry.
• Proven track record of managing large-scale production facilities and driving operational efficiency.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, quality systems (ISO, HACCP), and safety standards.
• Demonstrated experience with Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies.
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in manufacturing execution systems (MES) and ERP software.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively manage diverse teams.
• Ability to manage budgets and control operational expenditures.
• Familiarity with the Stellenbosch, Western Cape industrial landscape is an advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive executive salary, comprehensive benefits package including health insurance and retirement provisions, and exceptional opportunities for professional development.
• This role provides a significant leadership position in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, contributing directly to the success of a major FMCG manufacturer.