Plant Operations Manager - Food Processing

Placements24; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based incentives

Health insurance

Retirement plan with company matching

Generous paid time off

Professional development

Relocation assistance

Access to state-of-the-art production

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Plant Operations Manager to lead and optimize a food processing facility in Tembisa, Gauteng. You will drive operational excellence, manage budgets, and ensure food safety and regulatory compliance across production.

You will oversee schedules, maintenance, and a diverse team while collaborating with QA, supply chain, and R&D to continuously improve processes and product quality. This hybrid role requires on-site presence and occasional travel as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Engineering, Operations Management, or related field; Master’s preferred.
• 8+ years of progressive plant management experience in food processing.
• Proven experience with HACCP, GMP, and food safety management systems.
• Track record of managing operational budgets and cost-saving initiatives.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills; team development.
• Experience with lean manufacturing and Six Sigma.
• Hybrid work on-site at the Tembisa facility; willingness to travel.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day plant operations ensuring efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans aligned with objectives.
• Manage production schedules, labor, and resources to meet demand.
• Ensure HACCP, GMP, ISO 22000 compliance and regulatory standards.
• Lead and motivate production staff and managers.
• Manage the plant budget and optimize costs.
• Drive continuous improvement through lean and Six Sigma.
• Oversee maintenance and capital expenditure projects.
• Collaborate with supply chain, QA, and R&D for seamless operations.
• Mentor direct reports and identify training needs.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Strategic planning

People management

Food safety awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Food Science/Engineering/Operations Management

Tools

HACCP

GMP

Six Sigma

ISO 22000

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the food processing industry, is seeking an experienced Plant Operations Manager to lead and optimize their operations in Tembisa, Gauteng . This leadership position is critical for ensuring the efficient, safe, and high‑quality production of food products. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in food manufacturing, supply chain management, and team leadership. You will be responsible for driving operational excellence, managing budgets, implementing process improvements, and maintaining compliance with all relevant food safety and regulatory standards. This role offers a significant opportunity to shape the future of production at a key facility, contributing directly to the company's success and reputation. The manager will oversee all aspects of plant operations, from raw material intake to finished product dispatch. This includes managing production schedules, equipment maintenance, workforce planning, and quality assurance protocols. The Tembisa location presents unique logistical challenges and opportunities, requiring a manager with strategic foresight and adaptability. We are committed to sustainable practices and continuous improvement, and we expect our new manager to embody these values. The successful candidate will have the autonomy to implement innovative solutions and lead their team towards achieving ambitious production goals, ensuring that the highest standards of food safety and product integrity are maintained at all times throughout the production lifecycle. The role is integral to maintaining market leadership and consumer trust.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all day‑to‑day plant operations, ensuring efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans aligned with company objectives.
• Manage production schedules, labor, and resources to meet demand forecasts and delivery timelines.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety standards (HACCP, ISO 22000, etc.) and regulatory compliance.
• Lead and motivate a diverse team of production staff, supervisors, and managers, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Manage the plant budget, controlling costs and optimizing resource allocation.
• Implement and drive continuous improvement initiatives, including lean manufacturing and Six Sigma principles.
• Oversee equipment maintenance and capital expenditure projects to ensure operational reliability and efficiency.
• Collaborate with supply chain, quality assurance, and R&D departments to ensure seamless integration of operations.
• Develop and mentor direct reports, identifying training needs and career development opportunities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field. A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in plant management within the food processing industry.
• Demonstrated experience with HACCP, GMP, and other food safety management systems.
• Proven track record of success in managing operational budgets and implementing cost‑saving measures.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Ability to manage complex operations and drive change effectively.
• Knowledge of industrial equipment and maintenance practices.
• Must be able to work effectively in a hybrid model, spending significant time on‑site at the Tembisa facility.
• Willingness to travel occasionally as required by the business.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package with performance‑based incentives.
• Comprehensive health insurance, including medical and dental coverage.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional development.
• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art production facilities.