Operations Manager - Manufacturing & Production

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based bonus

Medical aid and retirement fund

Generous annual leave

Professional development and training

Career advancement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead a production facility in Soweto, Gauteng. This on-site role oversees manufacturing processes, drives lean and continuous improvement, and ensures safety and product quality.

You will manage schedules, optimize workflows, and lead production staff and supervisors to meet output targets. The ideal candidate has 7+ years in operations management within manufacturing, with strong leadership and data-driven problem-solving skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Management, Business Administration or related field.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in operations management with manufacturing focus.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma, Kaizen).
• Experience in production planning, scheduling and inventory management systems.
• Excellent leadership, communication and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to analyze production data and implement data-driven improvements.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day manufacturing operations, ensuring schedules and quality standards.
• Optimize production processes to reduce waste and boost output.
• Lead, train and motivate production teams with a safety-first mindset.
• Implement lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure health, safety and environmental regulations are followed in production facility.
• Manage inventory levels with the supply chain team.
• Monitor equipment performance and maintenance to minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality control and maintenance to resolve issues.
• Develop and manage departmental budgets and control costs.
• Report production performance and challenges to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Data-driven improvements

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Management

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration

Related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a reputable manufacturing company, is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead their production facility located in Soweto, Gauteng . This is a critical on-site role responsible for overseeing all aspects of the manufacturing process, ensuring operational efficiency, product quality, and the safety of the workforce. You will manage production schedules, optimize workflows, implement lean manufacturing principles, and lead a dedicated team of production staff and supervisors. The ideal candidate possesses a strong understanding of manufacturing operations, excellent leadership capabilities, and a commitment to continuous improvement. We are looking for a proactive individual who can effectively manage resources, solve production challenges, and drive productivity to meet company objectives. This role is integral to the smooth functioning and success of our client's production capabilities in the Soweto industrial area.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day manufacturing operations, ensuring adherence to production schedules and quality standards.
• Manage and optimize production processes to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve output.
• Lead, train, and motivate production teams, fostering a culture of safety, quality, and productivity.
• Implement and maintain lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations within the production facility.
• Manage inventory levels of raw materials and finished goods, working closely with the supply chain team.
• Monitor equipment performance and oversee maintenance schedules to minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality control, and maintenance departments to resolve production issues.
• Develop and manage departmental budgets, controlling operational costs.
• Report on production performance, key metrics, and operational challenges to senior management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in operations management, with a significant focus on manufacturing and production.
• Proven experience in leading production teams and managing manufacturing processes.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma, Kaizen).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with production planning, scheduling, and inventory management systems.
• Commitment to workplace safety and quality control standards.
• Ability to analyze production data and implement data-driven improvements.
• Proficiency in managing operational budgets and controlling costs.
• Must be able to work on-site in Soweto, Gauteng.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Opportunities for professional development and training in manufacturing best practices.
• Stable and secure employment with a reputable company.
• A hands-on role with direct impact on production output.
• Supportive management team and collaborative work environment.
• Potential for career advancement within the organization.
• Contribute to the local economy through manufacturing operations in Soweto.