Production Manager (Dairy)

Global Recruitment; Komani; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

A food production company is seeking a Production Manager (Cheese) in Komani, Eastern Cape. The ideal candidate should possess strong technical knowledge in cheese and butter production and have substantial experience in managing production teams. Responsibilities include operational management, budget handling, and ensuring compliance with food safety standards. The role demands a hands-on leader with proven decision-making capabilities and a focus on continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7–10 years’ experience in cheese production (hard, processed or mozzarella).
• At least 5 years at management level.
• Strong working knowledge of FSSC 22000 and high-care manufacturing environments.

Responsibilities

• Oversee processed cheese, cheese manufacturing, and butter production departments.
• Manage production budgets, KPIs, and operational teams.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-solving

Operational management

Budget management

Continuous improvement

Education

Grade 12 / Matric / Equivalent

Degree/Diploma in Food Technology, Dairy Science, or Production Management

Job description

PRODUCTION MANAGER (CHEESE) - QUEENSTOWN, EASTERN CAPE

Role Focus – Production Manager (Cheese):

The ideal candidate must have strong technical and operational knowledge in processed cheese, cheese manufacturing and butter production as they will be responsible for overseeing these departments. Leadership capability, problem-solving skills and experience managing production teams are also critical.

Education, experience and competencies required:

• Grade 12 / Matric / Equivalent.
• Degree/Diploma in Food Technology, Dairy Science, Production Management, or related field.
• Minimum 7–10 years’ experience in cheese production (hard, processed or mozzarella), with at least 5 years at a management level.
• Strong working knowledge of FSSC 22000 and high-care manufacturing environments.
• Proven track record in managing production budgets, KPIs and large operational teams.
• Strong leadership, decision‑making and problem‑solving capability.
• Hands‑on, decisive and results‑oriented leadership style.

KPI's:

Operational management, Food, Safety, Quality, and Compliance, Cost and Performance Management, People Leadership and Development, Stakeholder and Customer Engagement, Continuous Improvement, and Innovation.

CVs may be sent to [e-mail].