Operations Manager - Food & Beverage Manufacturing

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and bonus structure

Comprehensive health, wellness, and退休/

Retirement benefits

Significant opportunities for career -

Job summary

Placements24 in Randburg, Gauteng, seeks an experienced Operations Manager for its food and beverage manufacturing facility. You will lead daily manufacturing operations, optimize production schedules, ensure HACCP/GMP compliance, and drive continuous improvement on the floor.

The role requires a Bachelor's in a related field, 7+ years in food operations, strong Lean/Six Sigma experience, and proven budget management.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years in operations management in food & beverage.
• Strong knowledge of HACCP, GMP, and safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day manufacturing operations to meet targets.
• Lead and develop production supervisors and operators.
• Drive Lean/Six Sigma initiatives to reduce waste and improve productivity.
• Manage budgets and control operational costs.
• Collaborate with QA, maintenance, logistics and product development.

Skills

Leadership

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Team management

Budget control

Education

Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemical Eng, Industrial Eng, Business Admin

Tools

ERP systems

Production planning software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading company in the Food & Beverage manufacturing sector, is seeking a dynamic and results-driven Operations Manager for their facility in Randburg, Gauteng. This role is responsible for overseeing all daily manufacturing operations, ensuring the efficient and safe production of high-quality food products. You will lead and manage a diverse team, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and maintain compliance with stringent food safety regulations (e.g., HACCP, GMP). The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in food manufacturing operations, a strong understanding of production processes, quality assurance, supply chain management, and budget control. Your leadership will be crucial in optimizing production schedules, managing resources effectively, and achieving operational excellence. You will collaborate closely with departments such as quality control, maintenance, logistics, and product development to ensure seamless operations and drive business growth. We are looking for an individual with exceptional leadership, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards in a fast-paced production environment. This role requires a strong presence on the production floor to effectively manage and inspire the team.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all day-to-day manufacturing operations, ensuring targets for production volume, quality, and cost are met.
• Implement and maintain rigorous food safety and quality standards (HACCP, GMP, ISO 22000).
• Manage production schedules, optimize resource allocation, and ensure efficient use of equipment and materials.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of production supervisors, line leaders, and operators.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles to enhance productivity and reduce waste.
• Collaborate with the maintenance team to ensure equipment reliability and implement preventive maintenance programs.
• Manage departmental budgets, control operational costs, and identify opportunities for cost savings.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Work closely with supply chain and logistics teams to manage raw material inventory and finished goods distribution.
• Foster a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement within the operations team.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in operations management within the food and beverage manufacturing industry.
• In-depth knowledge of food processing technologies, quality control systems, and food safety regulations (HACCP, GMP).
• Proven experience in managing production teams, budgets, and operational processes.
• Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma methodologies.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in production planning software and ERP systems.
• Ability to work effectively in a demanding production environment.
• Commitment to upholding the highest standards of safety and quality.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and bonus structure.
• Comprehensive health, wellness, and retirement benefits.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement within the organization.
• Exposure to innovative food production technologies.
• A dynamic and supportive work environment.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Productivity incentives and performance-based rewards.