Operations Manager, FMCG Production - North West

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Training and development

Leadership role

Exposure to advanced FMCG tech

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead a large FMCG production facility in Klerksdorp, North West. The role focuses on lean principles, safety, quality, and operational excellence, with strategic oversight of the production process and workforce development.

The ideal candidate will have 8+ years in FMCG operations, strong leadership, and extensive experience with MES/ERP systems to drive efficiency and cost control.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field.
• 8+ years of progressively responsible operations management experience in FMCG.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing and Six Sigma principles.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day production operations and ensure schedules, quality, and safety compliance.
• Develop strategies to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and control costs.
• Train and develop production workforce to high performance and accountability.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations within the facility.
• Implement and sustain lean manufacturing and continuous improvement projects.
• Coordinate with procurement for raw materials and supplies.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Communication

Problem solving

Education

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

Tools

MES

ERP software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a well-established and rapidly expanding manufacturer in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Operations Manager to oversee their production facility. This vital role, based in Klerksdorp, North West Province, will be responsible for managing all aspects of the manufacturing process to ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality production output. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in FMCG production management, a deep understanding of lean manufacturing principles, and exceptional leadership capabilities to guide a large operational team. This is a prime opportunity to drive operational excellence and contribute significantly to the company's growth and success in a critical role.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day production operations, ensuring adherence to production schedules, quality standards, and safety regulations.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimize production efficiency, reduce waste, and control costs.
• Manage, train, and develop the production workforce, fostering a culture of accountability and high performance.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations within the manufacturing facility.
• Implement and maintain lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Manage the procurement of raw materials and supplies in coordination with the procurement department.
• Monitor production performance metrics and implement corrective actions to address deviations.
• Collaborate with quality assurance, maintenance, and supply chain teams to ensure seamless operations.
• Manage the production budget and forecast operational expenses accurately.
• Lead and participate in continuous improvement projects aimed at enhancing product quality and operational efficiency.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, or Chemical), Operations Management, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in operations management, with a strong focus on manufacturing within the FMCG sector.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale production operations and driving efficiency improvements.
• In-depth knowledge of manufacturing processes, quality control systems, and lean manufacturing methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma).
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Strong understanding of health, safety, and environmental regulations in a manufacturing context.
• Experience with production planning, inventory management, and cost control.
• Proficiency in using manufacturing execution systems (MES) and ERP software.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Reside in or be willing to relocate to Klerksdorp, North West Province.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and bonus structure linked to operational performance.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional development.
• A key leadership role with significant operational impact.
• Exposure to innovative FMCG production technologies.
• A challenging and rewarding work environment with a growing company.