Production Manager - Petrochemical

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive bonus

Medical aid

Relocation assistance

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 client in Mossel Bay (Western Cape) seeks an experienced Production Manager for a large-scale petrochemical facility. You will lead a diverse team of engineers and operators, drive safe and efficient operations, and ensure on-time, within-budget production of high-quality products.

You will develop and execute production plans, manage the plant budget, and collaborate with maintenance, engineering, and regulatory teams to sustain reliability and process improvements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering required.
• MBA or related postgraduate qualification advantageous.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in petrochemical or chemical plant operations, with at least 5 years in a senior management or supervisory role.
• Proven track record of managing complex, large-scale production facilities.
• In-depth knowledge of petrochemical processes, equipment, and safety standards.
• Strong leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent understanding of financial management, budgeting, and cost control.
• Experience with process optimization techniques and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities.
• Must be eligible to work in South Africa.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of the petrochemical production process, from feedstock intake to finished product dispatch.
• Develop and implement production plans and schedules to meet market demand and company objectives.
• Ensure strict adherence to all safety, health, and environmental (SHE) regulations and company policies.
• Manage and lead a diverse team of engineers, supervisors, and operational staff, fostering a culture of performance and accountability.
• Optimize production processes to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and minimize operating costs.
• Manage the plant's operational budget, ensuring financial targets are met.
• Collaborate with maintenance, engineering, and technical departments to ensure plant reliability and minimize downtime.
• Implement and manage continuous improvement initiatives, such as Lean Six Sigma projects.
• Oversee inventory management of raw materials and finished goods.
• Act as a key liaison with regulatory bodies, customers, and other stakeholders on production-related matters.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Safety compliance

Budgeting

Process optimization

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

MBA or related postgraduate

Tools

Plant management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the petrochemical industry, is seeking a highly accomplished Production Manager for their facility located in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This leadership position is responsible for the overall management and efficient operation of the production division, ensuring the safe, timely, and cost-effective output of high-quality petrochemical products. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in large-scale chemical plant operations, strong leadership acumen, and a deep commitment to safety and environmental stewardship. You will be instrumental in driving operational excellence, managing large teams, and implementing strategic initiatives to meet production targets and enhance profitability. This is a challenging yet rewarding role for an experienced professional.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of the petrochemical production process, from feedstock intake to finished product dispatch.
• Develop and implement production plans and schedules to meet market demand and company objectives.
• Ensure strict adherence to all safety, health, and environmental (SHE) regulations and company policies.
• Manage and lead a diverse team of engineers, supervisors, and operational staff, fostering a culture of performance and accountability.
• Optimize production processes to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and minimize operating costs.
• Manage the plant's operational budget, ensuring financial targets are met.
• Collaborate with maintenance, engineering, and technical departments to ensure plant reliability and minimize downtime.
• Implement and manage continuous improvement initiatives, such as Lean Six Sigma projects.
• Oversee inventory management of raw materials and finished goods.
• Act as a key liaison with regulatory bodies, customers, and other stakeholders on production-related matters.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• An MBA or relevant postgraduate qualification is advantageous.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in petrochemical or chemical plant operations, with at least 5 years in a senior management or supervisory role.
• Proven track record of managing complex, large-scale production facilities.
• In-depth knowledge of petrochemical processes, equipment, and safety standards.
• Strong leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent understanding of financial management, budgeting, and cost control.
• Experience with process optimization techniques and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in relevant plant management software and systems.
• Must be eligible to work in South Africa.

Benefits

This position offers an attractive executive compensation package, including a competitive base salary, performance bonuses, and comprehensive benefits such as executive medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and relocation assistance if applicable. Our client provides extensive opportunities for career advancement and professional development, including leadership training programs and international exposure. The role is based in the strategic industrial hub of Mossel Bay, Western Cape , offering a unique lifestyle balance. Employees enjoy access to modern facilities, advanced technology, and a challenging yet rewarding work environment. Our client is dedicated to employee well-being and professional growth.