Plant Operations Manager - Automotive Components

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 1,600,000 - 2,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Bonus potential

Relocation assistance

International travel

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is helping a prominent Port Elizabeth automotive components manufacturer recruit a seasoned Plant Operations Manager. The role oversees production, engineering, supply chain, quality, and health & safety to deliver operational excellence and growth in the Eastern Cape.

The ideal candidate has a strong track record in managing large-scale facilities, driving continuous improvement, and leading diverse teams on-site.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in plant management within automotive manufacturing.
• Proven ability to manage multi-disciplinary teams and large operational budgets.
• Deep understanding of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence methodologies.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in P&L management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic operational plans aligned with company objectives.
• Oversee all plant operations, ensuring efficient and cost-effective production.
• Manage budgets, control operational expenses, and drive profitability.
• Lead and mentor department managers and their teams to foster a high-performance culture.
• Implement and champion Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Oversee quality management systems to maintain product integrity and customer satisfaction.
• Manage supply chain and logistics to ensure timely delivery of raw materials and finished goods.
• Collaborate with engineering and maintenance teams for optimal equipment performance and uptime.
• Drive innovation and technological advancements within the plant operations.

Skills

Strategic planning

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Problem solving

Decision making

Change management

Financial acumen

Education

Master's degree in Engineering/Operations/Business Admin

Tools

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant manufacturer of automotive components in Port Elizabeth , is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Plant Operations Manager. This leadership role is responsible for the overall operational efficiency, productivity, and profitability of the entire manufacturing plant. You will oversee all aspects of production, including manufacturing, engineering, supply chain, quality assurance, and health & safety. The ideal candidate possesses a strong track record in managing large-scale manufacturing facilities, driving continuous improvement, and leading diverse teams. This is a critical on-site position demanding full-time commitment to ensuring operational excellence and strategic growth within the automotive sector in the Eastern Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic operational plans aligned with company objectives.
• Oversee all plant operations, ensuring efficient and cost-effective production.
• Manage budgets, control operational expenses, and drive profitability.
• Lead and mentor department managers and their teams to foster a high-performance culture.
• Implement and champion Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Oversee quality management systems to maintain product integrity and customer satisfaction.
• Manage supply chain and logistics to ensure timely delivery of raw materials and finished goods.
• Collaborate with engineering and maintenance teams for optimal equipment performance and uptime.
• Drive innovation and technological advancements within the plant operations.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience in plant management within the automotive manufacturing industry.
• Proven experience in managing multi-disciplinary teams and large operational budgets.
• Deep understanding of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence methodologies.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in P&L management.
• Excellent strategic planning, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Demonstrated success in implementing change management initiatives.
• Experience with automotive industry standards and quality systems (e.g., IATF 16949).
• Must be willing to commit to a full-time, on-site role in Port Elizabeth .

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive executive salary package, including substantial bonus potential and long-term incentives. Comprehensive executive benefits include top-tier medical aid, a generous retirement fund contribution, and relocation assistance if required. Opportunities for international travel and professional development at leading industry forums. Access to cutting-edge manufacturing technology and a culture that fosters innovation. This role provides a significant opportunity to shape the future of a key manufacturing facility in the Eastern Cape .