Operations Manager - Industrial Manufacturing

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Executive health insurance

Retirement fund

Equity opportunity

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban seeks an ambitious Operations Manager to lead a large manufacturing operation, drive efficiency, and safeguard profitability. You will shape strategy, optimize lean processes, and coach a diverse team across production, maintenance, and supply chain in a fast-paced industrial setting.

The ideal candidate holds a Masters in a relevant field, at least eight years in progressive operational roles, and a proven track record in lean, Six Sigma, and cost control.

Qualifications

• Masters level degree in a relevant field.
• Minimum 8 years in progressive operational management roles.
• Strong expertise in lean manufacturing and Six Sigma.
• Excellent leadership and stakeholder management skills.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of manufacturing operations (production, supply chain, logistics, maintenance).
• Develop and implement operational strategies to meet targets, quality, and cost objectives.
• Lead and develop a diverse workforce to foster a high-performance culture.
• Optimize processes using lean principles and continuous improvement.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Supply chain

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Education

Master's degree in Business Administration or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading industrial manufacturing company based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking a dynamic and results-oriented Operations Manager. This senior leadership role is responsible for overseeing the entire manufacturing operation, ensuring efficiency, productivity, and profitability. The successful candidate will drive strategic initiatives, optimize processes, and lead a large team to achieve operational excellence. This is a crucial on-site position, requiring full commitment to the Durban facility, and offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the company's success in the South African market. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in lean manufacturing and supply chain management.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of the manufacturing operations, including production, supply chain, logistics, and maintenance.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to meet production targets, quality standards, and cost objectives.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a diverse workforce to foster a high-performance culture.
• Optimize production processes through the application of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and ensure efficient resource allocation across all operational departments in Durban.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with senior management on strategic planning, forecasting, and business development.
• Oversee inventory management and supply chain logistics to ensure timely delivery of raw materials and finished goods.
• Drive innovation and implement new technologies to enhance operational efficiency and competitiveness.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in progressive operational management roles within the industrial manufacturing sector.
• Demonstrated success in managing large-scale manufacturing operations and driving significant improvements.
• Strong expertise in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and supply chain management principles.
• Excellent leadership, strategic thinking, and decision-making abilities.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, control costs, and improve profitability.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience working with diverse teams in a demanding industrial environment.
• Knowledge of relevant South African regulatory frameworks is a plus.
• Willingness to commit fully to the operational demands in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive executive salary package, including performance bonuses, executive health insurance, a robust retirement fund, and potential for company equity.
• This position provides unparalleled opportunities for career advancement and strategic influence within a leading manufacturing organization.
• Employees enjoy working in a state-of-the-art facility in Durban and contributing to impactful projects.
• The company is committed to employee development and provides ample training and professional growth opportunities.