Production Manager – Garment Manufacturing

University of Fort Hare; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Fort Hare is seeking a dynamic Production Manager to lead garment manufacturing operations at a Paarl plant. You will be responsible for planning, coordinating, and controlling all production processes to ensure timely delivery, quality output, and optimal resource use.

The role requires 5–8 years in clothing manufacturing with senior management experience, a strong CMT background, and proven leadership.

Qualifications

• Senior Certificate with a relevant tertiary qualification (Diploma/degree).
• 5–8 years’ experience in clothing manufacturing, with 2–4 years at senior management level.
• Strong background in CMT production management and time/work measurement.
• Proven track record of managing large teams and improving production output.
• Proficient in production systems and tools (Excel, FastReact, Sewing Network, LECTRA, Sage).
• Deep knowledge of garment construction, sublimation, and printing.
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily, weekly, and monthly production planning to meet delivery targets and quality standards.
• Drive cost-effective manufacturing by estimating costs, adjusting schedules, and managing budgets.
• Oversee equipment use, maintenance, and workplace safety for compliance and productivity.
• Manage large teams (100+ employees), promoting high performance and accountability.
• Implement quality assurance systems and continuous improvement (LEAN, Six Sigma, 5S).
• Foster skills development, training, succession planning, and staff motivation.
• Ensure compliance with labour laws and maintain strong union and stakeholder relationships.
• Collaborate with senior management to improve efficiency, processes, and company performance.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Problem solving

Negotiation

Communication

LEAN

Six Sigma

5S

Strategic planning

Financial planning

Safety compliance

Education

Diploma in Garment Construction

BSc Textile/Polymer

Industrial Engineering

Tools

Excel

FastReact

Sewing Network

LECTRA

Sage

Job description

Production Manager – Garment Manufacturing

2026-07-21 - 2026-08-31

Permanent

CPT002957

Are you a dynamic and results-driven production professional with a passion for garment manufacturing? We are looking for an experienced Production Manager to lead operations at a well-established vertical manufacturing plant in Paarl.

This is a critical leadership role responsible for planning, coordinating, and managing all aspects of the production process to ensure timely delivery, quality output, and efficient use of resources.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead daily, weekly, and monthly production planning and output to meet delivery targets and quality standards
• Drive cost-effective manufacturing by estimating costs, adjusting production schedules, and managing budgets
• Oversee equipment use, maintenance, and workplace safety to ensure a compliant and productive environment
• Manage large teams (100+ employees), promoting high performance and accountability
• Implement quality assurance systems and continuous improvement initiatives (LEAN, Six Sigma, 5S, etc.)
• Foster a culture of skills development, training, succession planning, and staff motivation
• Ensure compliance with labour laws and maintain strong union and stakeholder relationships
• Collaborate with senior management to improve efficiency, processes, and company performance

Requirements:

• Senior Certificate with a relevant tertiary qualification (e.g., Diploma in Garment Construction, Clothing Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, BSc Textile/Polymer)
• 5–8 years’ experience in clothing manufacturing, with at least 2–4 years at a senior management level
• Strong background in CMT production management and time/work measurement
• Proven track record of managing large teams and improving production output
• Proficient in relevant production systems and tools (e.g., Excel, FastReact, Sewing Network, LECTRA, Sage)
• Deep knowledge of manufacturing processes including garment construction, sublimation, and printing
• Skilled in financial planning, cost control, and resource management
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills

Please note that only suitable candidates will be contacted.