Operations Manager - FMCG Production Facility

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Life insurance

Retirement fund benefits

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Operations Manager for a state-of-the-art FMCG production facility in Polokwane, Limpopo. You will ensure efficient, safe manufacturing, meet production targets, and drive continuous improvement across the plant.

The ideal candidate brings 7+ years in FMCG operations, with proven leadership, lean/Six Sigma expertise, and ISO 9001 knowledge. You will manage budgets, mentor staff, and collaborate with Supply Chain, Engineering, and Quality teams to optimize

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field required.
• Master's degree is an advantage.
• Minimum 7 years in operations management within FMCG manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day manufacturing operations including planning, scheduling, and execution.
• Ensure adherence to quality control standards, safety regulations, and environmental policies.
• Implement lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma).
• Manage production budgets, control costs, and optimize resource utilization.
• Lead and develop a large team of supervisors and operators.
• Drive efficiency, reduce waste, and improve productivity across the plant.
• Coordinate with Supply Chain, Engineering, and Quality Assurance for seamless operations.
• Develop and implement SOPs and ensure consistent application.
• Monitor KPIs for production, quality, safety, and cost; take corrective actions.
• Foster a strong safety culture and compliance with OH&S regulations.

Skills

Leadership

People management

Problem solving

Strategic planning

Communication

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

ISO 9001 knowledge

ERP systems

Production planning

Budget management

Cost control

Team development

Safety regulations

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, Chemical)

Master's degree (advantage)

Tools

ERP systems

Production planning software

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leading and rapidly expanding FMCG manufacturer, is seeking a seasoned and results-oriented Operations Manager to oversee their state-of-the-art production facility. This critical role is responsible for ensuring efficient, safe, and high-quality manufacturing processes that meet production targets and customer demands. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in FMCG production, lean manufacturing principles, quality management systems, and people leadership. You will drive continuous improvement initiatives, optimize resource allocation, and foster a culture of operational excellence. This is a significant opportunity to lead a major production hub and contribute to the company's sustained growth. The position is based in Polokwane, Limpopo , a region with growing industrial and agricultural significance.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all day-to-day manufacturing operations, including production planning, scheduling, and execution.
• Ensure adherence to all quality control standards, safety regulations, and environmental policies.
• Implement and champion lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma).
• Manage production budgets, control costs, and optimize resource utilization (labour, materials, equipment).
• Lead, mentor, and develop a large team of production supervisors, operators, and support staff.
• Drive efficiency improvements, reduce waste, and enhance overall productivity across the plant.
• Manage equipment maintenance schedules and ensure optimal plant performance and uptime.
• Collaborate with Supply Chain, Engineering, and Quality Assurance teams to ensure seamless operations.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) and ensure their consistent application.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for production, quality, safety, and cost, and implement corrective actions.
• Foster a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with all occupational health and safety regulations.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, Chemical), Operations Management, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is an advantage.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in operations management within the FMCG manufacturing sector, with a proven track record in high-volume production environments.
• Extensive knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Demonstrated experience in managing production budgets, cost control, and resource optimization.
• Strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop teams.
• In-depth understanding of quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001) and food safety standards.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and strategic planning abilities.
• Proficiency in production planning software and ERP systems.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa.

Benefits

• A competitive annual salary package up to ZAR , depending on experience.
• Annual performance-based bonus and potential for other incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and retirement fund benefits.
• Relocation assistance available for candidates relocating to Polokwane .
• Opportunities for professional development, leadership training, and further certifications.
• Generous annual leave and paid time off.
• A dynamic and challenging work environment with significant responsibility.
• Be a key leader in a successful and growing FMCG manufacturing operation.
• Staff discounts on company products.
• Contribute to the efficient production of high-quality consumer goods.