Plant Operations Manager - Chemical Manufacturing

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

Retirement savings plan

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Plant Operations Manager for our Port Elizabeth facility. The role leads production, maintenance, safety, logistics and continuous improvement across a large chemical operation.

The ideal candidate has a chemical/mechanical engineering background with 10+ years in plant operations, strong leadership, safety compliance, and expertise in Lean/Six Sigma and ERP systems. Hybrid work model offered.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering.
• 10+ years in plant operations in chemical manufacturing.
• Proven large-scale facility management and cost control.
• Strong leadership and safety compliance track record.

Responsibilities

• Oversee plant operations including production, maintenance, safety and logistics.
• Develop strategic plans to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
• Lead budgeting, financial reporting and cost control.
• Drive continuous improvement via Lean/Six Sigma.
• Ensure quality standards meet regulatory requirements.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

ERP systems

Budget management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading chemical manufacturing company, is seeking an experienced and results-oriented Plant Operations Manager for their facility in Port Elizabeth. This senior leadership position is responsible for the overall management and strategic direction of plant operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and cost-effective production. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in chemical engineering or a related field, coupled with extensive experience in managing complex manufacturing processes and large teams. You will be instrumental in driving operational excellence, implementing robust safety protocols, managing budgets, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. This role requires strategic thinking, strong leadership acumen, and a commitment to upholding the highest standards of quality and compliance within the chemical industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of plant operations, including production, maintenance, safety, environmental compliance, and logistics.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to achieve operational goals, enhance efficiency, and reduce costs.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and environmental regulations and company policies.
• Manage the plant budget, controlling operational expenditures and identifying cost‑saving opportunities.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the operations team, fostering a high‑performance culture.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma.
• Oversee maintenance operations, ensuring the reliability and optimal performance of all plant equipment and machinery.
• Manage inventory levels of raw materials, work‑in‑progress, and finished goods.
• Collaborate with other departments, including R&D, Sales, and Supply Chain, to ensure alignment with business objectives.
• Ensure quality standards are met or exceeded for all products manufactured at the facility.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field. A Master's degree or MBA is a plus.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in plant operations management within the chemical manufacturing industry.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large‑scale chemical production facilities and complex processes.
• In-depth knowledge of chemical processes, safety regulations (e.g., OSHA, local environmental laws), and quality management systems.
• Demonstrated experience in budget management, cost control, and financial reporting.
• Strong leadership, team‑building, and people management skills.
• Excellent strategic thinking, problem‑solving, and decision‑making abilities.
• Proficiency in relevant software, including ERP systems and process simulation tools.
• Commitment to health, safety, and environmental stewardship.
• Experience with continuous improvement methodologies is essential.

Benefits

Our client offers an executive‑level compensation package, including a competitive base salary and performance‑based bonuses.

Comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement savings plan, and generous paid time off.

Opportunities for professional growth and development within a globally recognized organization are abundant.

The role is based in Port Elizabeth and offers a hybrid work model. This is an excellent opportunity to lead operations for a critical player in the chemical manufacturing sector.