Plant Operations Manager - On-Site Leadership

Placements24; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation package

Relocation assistance

Executive leadership development

Annual bonus potential

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an accomplished Plant Operations Manager to lead a state-of-the-art chemical facility in Pretoria. The role demands strategic vision, relentless safety focus, and deep manufacturing expertise to drive production, maintenance, and continuous improvement.

You will manage budgets, ensure compliance, and mentor a high-performing team. This on-site leadership position offers a substantial compensation package and long-term career progression within a respected industrial group.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering (MBA a plus).
• 10+ years of progressive plant management or senior ops leadership in chemical manufacturing.
• Proven P&L responsibility and budget management experience.
• Deep knowledge of chemical processes, safety protocols, and environmental regs.
• Track record of implementing continuous improvement (Lean/Six Sigma).
• Strong leadership, teamwork and communication skills.
• Experience with ERP systems and advanced manufacturing tech.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day plant operations ensuring safe, efficient production.
• Develop and execute strategies to hit targets for production, quality and cost.
• Manage departmental budgets and control expenditures.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.
• Lead and develop production, engineering and maintenance teams.
• Drive preventative maintenance programs and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Oversee supply chain and logistics related to plant operations.
• Manage capital expenditure projects for plant upgrades and expansions.
• Foster a culture of safety, quality and operational excellence.

Skills

P&L responsibility

Leadership

Budget management

Lean Six Sigma

ERP systems

Safety & compliance

Continuous improvement

Education

Bachelor's in Chemical/Mechanical Eng

MBA or Master's (advantage)

Tools

ERP software

SCADA/Manufacturing tech

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading chemical manufacturing conglomerate, is seeking a seasoned and results-oriented Plant Operations Manager to lead their state-of-the-art facility in Pretoria. This is a critical on-site role demanding strong leadership, strategic vision, and operational excellence. You will be responsible for the overall management of plant operations, including production, safety, environmental compliance, maintenance, and P&L responsibility. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in managing complex manufacturing operations, a deep understanding of chemical processes, and a proven ability to drive efficiency, cost reduction, and continuous improvement. This is a significant leadership opportunity within a well-established and respected industrial group.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all day-to-day plant operations, ensuring efficient and safe production processes.
• Develop and execute operational strategies to meet production targets, quality standards, and cost objectives.
• Manage departmental budgets and control operational expenditures.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of production, engineering, and maintenance professionals.
• Implement and maintain robust preventative maintenance programs.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies.
• Oversee supply chain and logistics related to plant operations.
• Manage capital expenditure projects for plant upgrades and expansions.
• Foster a culture of safety, quality, and operational excellence.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field. An MBA or Master's degree is a significant advantage.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in plant management or senior operational leadership roles within the chemical manufacturing industry.
• Demonstrated P&L responsibility and budget management experience.
• In-depth knowledge of chemical processes, safety protocols (e.g., OSHA, HAZOP), and environmental regulations.
• Proven track record in implementing successful continuous improvement programs.
• Strong leadership, team-building, and communication skills.
• Experience with ERP systems and advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Ability to make strategic decisions under pressure and manage complex challenges.
• Must be willing to work full-time on-site in Pretoria.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive executive compensation package, including a substantial base salary, annual bonus potential, and long-term incentives.
• Comprehensive benefits include top-tier medical and dental insurance, a generous pension fund contribution, and life assurance.
• Opportunities for executive leadership development and significant career progression are available.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for qualified candidates.
• This role offers the chance to lead a major operation and make a tangible impact.