Operations Manager - FMCG Production

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Comprehensive medical aid and Providen

Company vehicle or car allowance

Employee wellness programs

Job summary

Placements24 leads FMCG manufacturing and seeks an experienced Operations Manager to optimize production at the Vereeniging facility. You will drive efficiency, safety and quality while leading teams and strategizing improvements.

The role requires a hands-on leader who can balance on-site management with long-term planning, aiming for cost control and continuous performance enhancement within a hybrid work setup.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, Chemical) or related field plus Operations Management.
• Minimum 6 years in FMCG operations management with proven improvement track record.
• Experience leading large production teams and managing budgets.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma and production planning.

Responsibilities

• Oversee manufacturing and production processes ensuring efficiency, quality, and on-time delivery.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimize output, reduce waste, and control costs.
• Lead production supervisors, line operators, and support staff, ensuring safety and productivity.
• Maintain rigorous quality control and regulatory compliance across operations.
• Monitor performance metrics and implement corrective actions.
• Manage operational budget including labor, materials, and overhead costs.
• Collaborate with supply chain, procurement and logistics to ensure smooth material flow.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives such as Lean or Six Sigma to enhance efficiency.
• Ensure health, safety and environmental regulations are followed; implement maintenance schedules.

Skills

Leadership

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Production planning

Quality control

Analytical thinking

Decision making

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturer in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is seeking an experienced and results-oriented Operations Manager to oversee production and operational efficiency at their facility in Vereeniging, Gauteng . This hybrid role requires a strong leader who can manage both on-site operations and strategic planning, ensuring optimal production output, quality control, and cost management. You will be responsible for leading production teams, implementing process improvements, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of FMCG manufacturing processes, a proven ability to drive operational excellence, and excellent leadership skills. This is a critical role that offers the chance to make a substantial impact on our client's production capabilities in Vereeniging, Gauteng , contributing to their market leadership. We are looking for a hands-on manager who can foster a culture of continuous improvement and high performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of the manufacturing and production processes to ensure efficiency, quality, and timely delivery of FMCG products.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to optimize production output, reduce waste, and control costs.
• Manage and lead a team of production supervisors, line operators, and support staff, fostering a productive and safe work environment.
• Implement and maintain rigorous quality control systems and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
• Monitor production performance metrics, identify areas for improvement, and implement corrective actions.
• Manage the operational budget, including labor, materials, and overhead costs.
• Collaborate with supply chain, procurement, and logistics teams to ensure smooth raw material flow and finished goods distribution.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, such as Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma, to enhance operational efficiency.
• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations within the production facility.
• Develop and implement robust maintenance schedules for production equipment.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, Chemical), Operations Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in operations management, with a strong background in FMCG manufacturing.
• Proven track record of successfully managing production facilities and improving operational efficiency.
• Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to motivate and manage large teams.
• Strong understanding of production planning, quality control, and lean manufacturing principles.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making abilities.
• Proficiency in ERP systems and production management software.
• Knowledge of health, safety, and environmental regulations in a manufacturing setting.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid capacity, balancing on-site management with strategic planning.
• Experience in the Gauteng region is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility.
• Comprehensive medical aid and provident fund.
• Opportunities for professional development and advancement.
• A dynamic and challenging work environment in Vereeniging, Gauteng .
• Company vehicle or car allowance.
• Employee wellness programs.