Plant Operations Manager - Chemical Manufacturing

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 2,400,000 - 4,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Health, disability, and life insurance

Retirement fund contribution

Relocation assistance

Company car allowance

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Plant Operations Manager for a leading chemical manufacturer in Pretoria. You will oversee safe, efficient plant operations and lead engineers, operators and maintenance staff to achieve production targets.

The role emphasizes HSE compliance, cost control, and continuous improvement with Lean/Six Sigma, process optimization and strong team leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering.
• Master's degree or MBA is advantageous.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in chemical plant operations; at least 5 in management.
• Proven expertise in managing complex chemical processes and hazardous materials.
• Strong knowledge of HSE regulations, PSM, and environmental compliance.
• Experience implementing Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Strong financial acumen and budget management.
• Experience with process control systems and MES.
• Ability to make sound decisions under pressure in dynamic environments.
• Experience in project management for plant upgrades or expansions.
• Legally authorized to work in Pretoria, Gauteng.

Responsibilities

• Manage all day-to-day plant operations, including production, maintenance, logistics, and safety.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve efficiency, productivity, and reduce costs.
• Ensure strict adherence to HSE regulations and company policies.
• Oversee maintenance and repair of plant equipment to minimize downtime.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the operations team.
• Manage the plant budget, including capex planning and cost control.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives using Lean and Six Sigma.
• Oversee inventory management and supply chain coordination.
• Collaborate with engineering and R&D on process improvements and capital projects.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and set clear objectives for the team.

Skills

Leadership

HSE compliance

Lean Six Sigma

Process optimization

Budget management

Team development

MES proficiency

Chemical process engineering

Education

BSc Chemical Eng

MBA or MSc advantageous

Tools

MES

Process control systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading chemical manufacturing company, is seeking an experienced and results-oriented Plant Operations Manager to oversee operations at their facility in Pretoria . This senior leadership position is responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of the plant, driving productivity, managing resources, and maintaining high standards of operational excellence. You will lead a diverse team of professionals, including engineers, operators, and maintenance staff, fostering a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in chemical process engineering and a proven track record of managing complex industrial operations. This role is crucial for achieving production targets, controlling costs, and ensuring adherence to stringent environmental and safety regulations. We are looking for a decisive leader with excellent problem-solving abilities and a commitment to sustainable practices. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact within a reputable organization in Pretoria , contributing to the development and production of essential chemical products.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all day-to-day plant operations, including production, maintenance, logistics, and safety, ensuring targets for output, quality, and cost are met.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to optimize plant efficiency, improve productivity, and reduce operational costs.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and environmental (HSE) regulations and company policies.
• Oversee the maintenance and repair of plant equipment and machinery to ensure optimal performance and minimize downtime.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the operations team, fostering a positive and high-performance work culture.
• Manage the plant budget, including capital expenditure planning and operational cost control.
• Implement and champion continuous improvement initiatives using methodologies like Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma.
• Oversee inventory management and supply chain coordination to ensure timely availability of raw materials and efficient product distribution.
• Collaborate with engineering and R&D departments on process improvements, new product introductions, and capital projects.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and establish clear performance objectives for the operations team.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• A Master's degree or MBA is advantageous.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in chemical plant operations, with at least 5 years in a management role.
• Proven expertise in managing complex chemical processes and hazardous materials.
• Strong understanding of HSE regulations, process safety management (PSM), and environmental compliance.
• Demonstrated experience in implementing Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma principles.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing operational budgets.
• Proficiency in process control systems and manufacturing execution systems (MES).
• Ability to make sound decisions under pressure and manage effectively in a dynamic environment.
• Experience in project management, particularly for plant upgrades or expansions.
• Must be legally authorized to work in Pretoria , Gauteng.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive executive salary package, including performance-based bonuses and comprehensive health, disability, and life insurance.
• Employees are eligible for a substantial retirement fund contribution and generous paid time off.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development, including leadership training and industry-specific courses, are provided.
• Additional benefits include relocation assistance (if applicable), wellness programs, and a company car allowance.
• Join a stable and growing organization committed to innovation and safety in the chemical industry.