OPERATIONS MANAGER – GUACAMOLE PLANT – TZANEEN

Agricruitment Limited; Tzaneen; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading fruit processing company in Tzaneen is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee all fruit processing operations. The ideal candidate will ensure compliance with health and safety regulations while managing an efficient production process and leading a multi-disciplinary team. This role requires strong leadership, budgeting skills, and a background in food processing. Candidates should hold a Bachelor's degree and have 5–7 years of relevant experience. Email your CV in WORD format to [e-mail].

Qualifications

• Minimum 5–7 years’ experience in manufacturing or food processing operations.
• Strong understanding of Health and Safety regulations.
• Demonstrated experience in quality control systems.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all fruit processing operations.
• Ensure Health and Safety compliance.
• Manage dry material stores and monitor the production process.

Skills

Strong knowledge of fruit processing operations

Proficient in production monitoring systems

Strong analytical skills

Excellent leadership abilities

Effective communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management

Master’s degree (advantage)

Tools

ERP software

MS Office

Job description

JOB SUMMARY & PURPOSE

The Operations Manager oversees all fruit processing operations, ensuring Health and Safety compliance, efficient fruit procurement, and effective production planning. They manage dry material stores, monitor the production process, and uphold quality control and assurance standards. Responsible for leading subordinate staff, the manager drives operational efficiency while maintaining high product quality. Additionally, they oversee the financial performance of the Plant, implementing strategies to optimize productivity, reduce costs, and achieve overall business objectives in a safe, compliant, and well-organised environment.

POSITION HIERARCY

Incumbent’s Superior: Head of Processing

Incumbent’s Position Title: Operations Manager

Incumbent’s Immediate Subordinates: Production Manager, Quality Manager, Engineering Manager, Cost Accountant, H&S Officer, Inbound‑outbound Coordinator

Qualifications / Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Food Science, Agriculture, Engineering, or a related field (Master’s degree an advantage).
• Minimum 5–7 years’ experience in manufacturing or food processing operations, preferably within fruit or FMCG industries.
• Proven experience in production planning, procurement, and inventory management.
• Strong understanding of Health and Safety regulations and compliance requirements.
• Demonstrated experience in quality control and assurance systems.
• Solid financial and budget management experience.
• Strong leadership skills with experience managing multi‑disciplinary teams.
• Proficient in production monitoring systems, ERP software, and MS Office.
• Excellent problem‑solving, organisational, and decision‑making abilities.

Knowledge/skills

• Strong knowledge of fruit processing operations, production workflows, and manufacturing best practices.
• In‑depth understanding of Health and Safety standards and regulatory requirements.
• Knowledge of quality control, food safety systems, and compliance.
• Understanding of procurement processes, supply‑chain management, and inventory control.
• Skilled in production planning, resource allocation, and process optimisation.
• Proficiency with ERP systems, production monitoring tools, and MS Office applications.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent leadership, people management, and team‑building abilities.
• Effective communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure, prioritise tasks, and meet production deadlines.

Attitude/Behaviour

• Proactive and solutions‑oriented mindset with a strong drive for continuous improvement.
• High level of integrity, accountability, and professionalism.
• Strong commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence.
• Positive attitude with the ability to motivate and inspire teams.
• Adaptable and flexible in responding to changing operational demands.
• Calm and composed under pressure, especially during peak production periods.
• Detail‑focused with a commitment to accuracy and consistency.
• Collaborative and supportive, fostering a culture of teamwork and respect.
• Decisive and confident in making timely, informed decisions.
• Open to feedback and committed to personal and team development.

Email CV in WORD format: [e-mail]