Production Manager

Talent Network Global; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading plastics and packaging manufacturer is seeking a senior Production Manager for their plant in Johannesburg to drive operational performance. The ideal candidate should possess a degree in Engineering and have over 10 years of manufacturing experience, with at least 5 years in a senior production management role. Responsibilities include achieving production efficiency, quality control, and leading a high-performance team. This position is pivotal for ensuring sustainability and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of manufacturing experience.
• 5+ years in a senior production management role.
• Experience in plastics or packaging manufacturing essential.

Responsibilities

• Achieve and sustain ≥85% production efficiency.
• Reduce material waste to <1.4%.
• Drive continuous cycle time improvements.
• Maintain <0.2% customer returns and zero justified complaints.
• Ensure zero food safety audit findings.
• Deliver effective asset care and maintenance utilisation.
• Control production costs and deliver budget.
• Lead, develop, and retain a high-performance production team.

Skills

Leadership in high-pressure environments

Efficiency improvement

Quality control

Cost management

Education

Engineering degree (Mechanical, Electrical, or Mechatronics)

Job description

A leading plastics and packaging manufacturer is seeking a senior Production Manager for their plant in Johannesburg to drive operational performance, quality, and people leadership across the plant.

KEY REQUIREMENTS

• Engineering degree (Mechanical, Electrical, or Mechatronics)
• 10+ years manufacturing experience
• 5+ years in a senior production management role
• Plastics or packaging manufacturing experience (essential)
• Proven track record of delivering measurable efficiency, quality, and cost improvements
• Strong leadership capability in high-pressure, high-volume environments

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Achieve and sustain ≥85% production efficiency
• Reduce material waste to <1.4%
• Drive continuous cycle time improvements
• Maintain <0.2% customer returns and zero justified complaints
• Ensure zero food safety audit findings
• Deliver effective asset care, planned maintenance utilisation, and zero critical spares stock-outs
• Own production cost control and budget delivery
• Lead, develop, and retain a high-performance production team