Production Manager (Food Packaging)

Kontak Recruitment; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking a hands-on Production Manager for a food packaging facility in Johannesburg. The role involves leading production operations, planning, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. The ideal candidate will have over 6 years of experience in manufacturing and demonstrate strong leadership and problem-solving skills. An attractive salary is offered, negotiable based on experience.

Qualifications

• 6+ years’ experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably food/FMCG.
• Proven track record in team leadership and achieving targets.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transport are necessary.

Responsibilities

• Oversee production from raw materials to finished goods.
• Lead and manage production teams to achieve output targets.
• Enforce food safety and hygiene standards.

Skills

Team leadership

Problem-solving

Data-driven mindset

Planning & prioritization

Familiarity with Food Management Systems

Education

Diploma in Production / Operations Management

Tools

MS Office

ERP/MRP (e.g., Syspro)

Job description

Production Manager (Food Packaging) – Johannesburg.

Seeking a hands-on Production Manager to lead end-to-end operations at a fast-moving food packaging facility. You’ll own daily planning, people management, quality, safety, and continuous improvement to hit output, cost, and waste targets.

Salary: R30 000 – R35 000 CTC per month (negotiable based on experience).

Minimum Requirements:

• Diploma in Production / Operations Management (advantageous).
• 6+ years’ experience in a manufacturing environment (food / FMCG preferred).
• Proven team leadership and problem-solving track record.
• Proficient in MS Office (strong Excel). Experience with ERP/MRP (e.g., Syspro or similar) advantageous.
• Valid driver’s licence and reliable transport.
• Willing and able to work overtime when required.
• Familiarity with Food Management Systems/3rd-party audits (e.g., Intertek or equivalent).
• Strong people leadership, coaching and conflict resolution.
• Planning & prioritisation in a high-pressure environment.
• Root-cause analysis and practical problem solving.
• Data-driven mindset with solid Excel reporting.
• Continuous improvement/lean orientation.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Oversee end-to-end production from raw materials to finished, packaged goods.
• Lead, coach, roster and performance-manage production teams to achieve daily/weekly output and OEE targets.
• Enforce food safety, quality, health & safety, and hygiene standards across shifts.
• Execute daily/weekly production plans; adjust in real time for breakdowns, changeovers, and staffing constraints.
• Drive continuous improvement, lean, and waste-reduction initiatives (yield, scrap, rework).
• Manage warehouse interface: intake, storage, stock accuracy, and dispatch coordination.
• Maintain and improve compliance to Food Management System requirements and audit readiness.
• Train and upskill staff to build multi-skilled, high-performing teams.
• Produce accurate shift, downtime, and KPI reporting; escalate risks proactively.