Plant Operations Manager

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Annual bonus

Medical aid

Robust retirement fund

Leadership development programs

International exposure

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Plant Operations Manager to lead a Pietermaritzburg facility in KwaZulu-Natal. The role oversees production, engineering, quality assurance and supply chain, with a strong focus on safety, environmental compliance and cost effectiveness.

The ideal candidate will drive operational excellence, implement best practices, and inspire a high-performing team across departments. Hybrid work model with on-site leadership and remote oversight is offered.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in manufacturing operations management with 5+ years in a managerial role.
• Proven track record of improving plant efficiency, reducing costs and improving quality.
• Expertise in Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma or equivalent.
• Strong financial acumen: budgeting and P&L responsibility.
• Excellent leadership and communication across functions.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic plans to hit production and quality targets.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and optimize resource allocation.
• Oversee maintenance and upgrades of plant machinery for optimal performance.
• Implement and monitor health, safety and environmental policies.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team of managers and staff.
• Drive continuous improvement using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Ensure compliance with local and international regulations governing manufacturing.
• Collaborate with R&D, sales and marketing to align production with demand.
• Manage supplier relationships and maintain a reliable supply chain.
• Report plant performance and insights to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Budgeting

Communication

ERP / SAP

Education

Bachelor's degree (Engineering or Operations Management)

Master's degree preferred

Tools

SAP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the industrial manufacturing sector, is seeking a seasoned Plant Operations Manager to lead their facility in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal . This strategic leadership role involves overseeing all aspects of plant operations, including production, engineering, quality assurance, and supply chain management. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving operational efficiency, ensuring cost-effectiveness, and upholding the highest standards of safety and environmental compliance. This is a critical position for someone with extensive experience in managing complex manufacturing environments and a proven ability to implement best practices. We are looking for a visionary leader who can inspire teams and achieve ambitious production targets. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of our client's manufacturing capabilities in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic plans to achieve plant production and quality goals.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and optimize resource allocation across all operational departments.
• Oversee the maintenance and upgrade of plant machinery and equipment to ensure optimal performance.
• Implement and monitor stringent health, safety, and environmental (HSE) policies and procedures.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team of department managers and staff.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma.
• Ensure compliance with all local and international regulations governing manufacturing operations.
• Collaborate with R&D, sales, and marketing teams to align production with market demands.
• Manage supplier relationships and ensure a reliable supply chain for raw materials and components.
• Report on plant performance to senior management, providing insights and recommendations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in manufacturing operations management, with at least 5 years in a managerial capacity.
• Demonstrated success in improving plant efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing product quality.
• Expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong leadership, team-building, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in financial management, budgeting, and P&L responsibility.
• In-depth knowledge of industrial safety and environmental regulations.
• Experience with SAP or other ERP systems is essential.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing on-site presence with remote oversight.
• Reside in or be willing to relocate to the Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal area.

Benefits

• This role comes with an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive base salary, annual bonus, comprehensive medical aid, and a robust retirement fund.
• Our client provides significant opportunities for professional growth, including leadership development programs and the chance to work on cutting-edge projects.
• You will be part of a collaborative and innovative work culture that values expertise and dedication.
• Additional benefits include potential for international exposure, generous leave policies, and access to wellness programs.

Join a forward-thinking organization committed to operational excellence and sustainable manufacturing practices.