Plant Operations Manager - Chemical Manufacturing

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical insurance

Life assurance

Retirement fund

Relocation assistance

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Rustenburg, North West is seeking a seasoned Plant Operations Manager to lead all production, safety, and maintenance activities at our chemical facility. You will craft strategies to improve efficiency, control costs, and drive regulatory compliance while guiding a high-performance operations team.

The role demands a strong background in chemical processes, lean manufacturing, and hands-on leadership to sustain safe, reliable, and compliant operations.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive experience in plant operations management within the chemical manufacturing sector.
• Deep knowledge of chemical processes, plant safety regulations, and hazardous material handling.
• Experience managing large operational teams and budgets.
• Strong leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities.
• Proven track record implementing continuous improvement and lean manufacturing principles.
• Excellent understanding of quality management systems and regulatory compliance.
• Proficiency in using plant management software and data analysis tools.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to engage stakeholders at all levels.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all plant operations, including production, maintenance, quality control, and safety.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to optimize plant efficiency, productivity, and cost-effectiveness.
• Ensure strict compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations specific to chemical manufacturing.
• Lead and mentor the plant management team and operational staff, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Oversee budgeting, capital expenditure planning, and resource allocation for the plant.
• Implement and refine best practices in process control, operational procedures, and preventative maintenance.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational performance and product quality.
• Manage supplier relationships and ensure timely procurement of raw materials and essential supplies.
• Conduct regular safety audits and implement corrective actions to maintain a secure working environment.
• Report on plant performance metrics to senior management, providing insights and recommendations.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Lean manufacturing

Regulatory compliance

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Master's degree advantageous

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished leader in the chemical manufacturing industry, is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Plant Operations Manager to spearhead operations at their facility in Rustenburg, North West . This crucial role demands exceptional leadership in overseeing all aspects of plant production, safety, efficiency, and personnel management. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of chemical processes, stringent safety protocols, and a proven track record of optimizing plant performance to meet demanding production targets. This is a significant opportunity to influence operational excellence within a well-established and respected organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all plant operations, including production, maintenance, quality control, and safety.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to optimize plant efficiency, productivity, and cost-effectiveness.
• Ensure strict compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations specific to chemical manufacturing.
• Lead and mentor the plant management team and operational staff, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Oversee budgeting, capital expenditure planning, and resource allocation for the plant.
• Implement and refine best practices in process control, operational procedures, and preventative maintenance.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational performance and product quality.
• Manage supplier relationships and ensure timely procurement of raw materials and essential supplies.
• Conduct regular safety audits and implement necessary corrective actions to maintain a secure working environment.
• Report on plant performance metrics to senior management, providing insights and recommendations for improvement.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field; a Master's degree is an advantage.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in plant operations management within the chemical manufacturing sector.
• Extensive knowledge of chemical processes, plant safety regulations (e.g., OSHA, local environmental laws), and hazardous material handling.
• Proven experience in managing large operational teams and budgets.
• Strong leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities.
• Demonstrated success in implementing continuous improvement and lean manufacturing principles.
• Excellent understanding of quality management systems and regulatory compliance.
• Proficiency in using plant management software and data analysis tools.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
• A strong commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and operational excellence.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive executive compensation package, including a substantial base salary, performance-driven bonuses, and comprehensive benefits such as private medical insurance, life assurance, and a generous retirement fund. Relocation assistance may be provided. Employees will have access to ongoing professional development opportunities and the chance to lead significant operational improvements within a reputable industry leader. This role is based at our client's operational hub in Rustenburg , offering a stable and challenging career path.