Production Manager

HR Management & Support Services (Pty) Ltd t/a The HR Department; Gouda; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Our client, based in Gouda, Western Cape, is a dynamic manufacturing and innovation company specialising in fruit-based products for local and international markets.

They are seeking a Production Manager to oversee and optimise production operations, driving efficiency, cost control and product quality, while leading staff performance and aligning production targets with business goals and international best practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Production Management, Industrial Engineering, Food Technology or related field.
• 5+ years in a production management role within food production/packaging.
• Knowledge of fruit processing, packaging standards and food safety regulations.
• Proficiency in ERP and production management systems.
• Knowledge of OEE and BOM.
• Understanding of cost control, inventory and supply chain optimisation.
• Lean Manufacturing / Six Sigma experience advantageous.
• Strong leadership to manage cross-functional teams.
• Strategic thinking and continuous improvement capabilities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication with high accuracy.

Responsibilities

• Production Management & Operational Efficiency
• Cost & Financial Management
• Production Capacity & Growth
• Raw Material & Stock Management
• Quality & Food Safety
• Customer Service & Delivery
• People Management & Development
• Technology & Continuous Improvement
• R&D & Product Implementation
• Risk Management & Preventative Maintenance
• Systems, Reporting & Data Accuracy
• Governance, Compliance & Risk
• Working Capital & Financial Discipline

Skills

Experience 5+ yrs

ERP systems

OEE & BOM

Cost control

Inventory management

Lean Manufacturing

Leadership

Communication

Analytical thinking

Decision making under pressure

Education

Bachelor’s in Production Management / Industrial Engineering / Food Technology

Tools

ERP and production management systems

Job description

Our client, based in Gouda, Western Cape, is a dynamic manufacturing and innovation company specialising in innovative fruit-based products for local and international markets. The Group is looking for a Production Manager to oversee and optimise production operations, driving efficiency, cost control, product quality and staff performance while ensuring production targets are consistently achieved and aligned with business goals and international best practices.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Production Management & Operational Efficiency
• Cost & Financial Management
• Production Capacity & Growth
• Raw Material & Stock Management
• Quality & Food Safety
• Customer Service & Delivery
• People Management & Development
• Technology & Continuous Improvement
• R&D & Product Implementation
• Risk Management & Preventative Maintenance
• Systems, Reporting & Data Accuracy
• Governance, Compliance & Risk
• Working Capital & Financial Discipline

REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Production Management, Industrial Engineering, Food Technology or a related field.
• 5+ years’ experience in a production management role within the food production and packaging industry.
• Strong knowledge of fruit processing, packaging standards and food safety regulations.
• Proficiency in ERP and production management systems.
• Sound knowledge of OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) and BOM (Bill of Materials).
• Strong understanding of cost control, inventory management and supply chain optimisation.
• Experience in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma or similar methodologies would be advantageous.
• Proven leadership and team management skills, with the ability to lead cross-functional teams.
• Strong strategic thinking and continuous improvement capabilities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and decision-making skills, particularly under pressure.

CLOSING DATE: 20 OCTOBER 2026

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

All Recruitment procedures comply with The Protection of Personal Information Act No. 4 of 2013.