Plant Operations Leader, Food Processing (Mossel Bay)

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package with bonus

Comprehensive medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development opportunities

Opportunity to lead critical ops in a/

Growing sector impact

Job summary

Placements24 in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, is seeking an Operations Manager to lead a food processing plant. You will oversee production, ensure quality and safety, manage budgets, and drive continuous improvement across the operation.

The candidate should have a Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or related field and at least 6 years in operations management with 3+ years in processing. Based in Mossel Bay, you will guide a diverse team and liaise with QA and supply chains.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Agricultural Science, Operations Management, or related field.
• At least 6 years of operations management experience, with 3+ years in agricultural processing or food manufacturing.
• Experience with production processes, quality control, and staff supervision in a processing plant.
• Strong knowledge of HACCP and GMP food safety standards.
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in operations software and basic financial management.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Based in Mossel Bay, Western Cape or willing to relocate.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operations of the agricultural processing plant, ensuring smooth production flow.
• Oversee quality control procedures to meet high industry standards for all products.
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance operational efficiency and reduce waste.
• Manage inventory of raw materials and finished goods, ensuring adequate supply and minimizing spoilage.
• Lead, train, and motivate a diverse team of plant employees, fostering a culture of safety and productivity.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and environmental regulations relevant to food processing.
• Manage operational budgets and control costs effectively.
• Oversee maintenance and upkeep of plant machinery and equipment.
• Liaise with suppliers, quality assurance teams, and distribution channels.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to optimize production processes.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Problem-solving

Communication

Decision-making

Quality assurance

HACCP knowledge

GMP knowledge

Safety awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Food Science / Agricultural Science / Operations Management

Tools

Operations management software

Basic financial management

Job description

Placements24 in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, is seeking an Operations Manager to lead a food processing plant. You will oversee production, ensure quality and safety, manage budgets, and drive continuous improvement across the operation.

The candidate should have a Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or related field and at least 6 years in operations management with 3+ years in processing. Based in Mossel Bay, you will guide a diverse team and liaise with QA and supply chains.