Production Manager

HR Management & Support Services; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

HR Management & Support Services is assisting a Gouda-based manufacturer in the Western Cape to recruit a Production Manager. The role oversees production operations, driving efficiency, cost control, product quality and staff performance to meet targets in line with international best practices.

The ideal candidate will hold a Bachelor's degree in Production Management, Industrial Engineering, or Food Technology, with 5+ years in food production management and strong proficiency in ERP systems

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.
• Strong knowledge of fruit processing, packaging standards and food safety regulations.
• Proficiency in ERP and production management systems.
• Knowledge of OEE and BOM.
• Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma experience advantageous.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Strong strategic thinking and continuous improvement capabilities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Oversee production management and drive operational efficiency.
• Manage cost and financial performance.
• Coordinate capacity planning and growth initiatives.
• Control raw materials, inventory and stock.
• Ensure food safety and quality compliance.
• Ensure on-time delivery and customer service.
• Lead people management and staff development.
• Drive continuous improvement and data accuracy.
• Oversee governance, risk and compliance.
• Monitor working capital and financial discipline.

Skills

Leadership

Cross-functional teams

Continuous improvement

Analytical thinking

Decision making under pressure

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Production Management, Industrial Engineering, or Food Technology

Tools

ERP systems

Production management software

OEE/BOM knowledge

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.