Regional Operations Manager

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Provident fund

Company vehicle / travel allowance

Leadership development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Regional Operations Manager to lead and optimize FMCG operations across Paarl and surrounding facilities. You will manage production, supply chain, inventory and distribution, driving continuous improvements and cost efficiencies while maintaining quality and safety standards.

The role requires strong leadership, strategic planning, and the ability to balance on-site presence with hybrid work arrangements in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in operations management within FMCG.
• Strong leadership and cross-functional collaboration.
• Experience with production, warehousing, and logistics.

Responsibilities

• Oversee multi-site operations ensuring efficiency and quality.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimize production and costs.
• Manage inventory, warehousing, and distribution logistics.
• Lead and develop operations staff; drive continuous improvement.
• Monitor KPIs and take corrective actions as needed.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regs.
• Collaborate with Sales, Marketing and Finance to align plans.
• Manage budgets and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Drive lean initiatives and other improvement methodologies.

Skills

Operations leadership

Lean manufacturing

Budget management

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Operations Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent entity in the FMCG sector, is seeking an accomplished Regional Operations Manager to oversee and optimize operations across their facilities in the designated region, with a primary focus on the Paarl, Western Cape area. This senior role is responsible for ensuring the efficient and effective management of production, supply chain, inventory, and distribution processes to meet company objectives. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in operations management within the FMCG industry, coupled with exceptional leadership and analytical skills. You will drive continuous improvement initiatives, manage operational budgets, and ensure the highest standards of quality and safety are maintained. This is a strategic position that demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to operational excellence. The role offers a dynamic work environment where you can make a tangible impact on the business's success. The hybrid work model allows for a balance between site presence and strategic planning.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations across multiple sites, ensuring efficiency, productivity, and adherence to quality standards.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to optimize production, reduce costs, and improve service levels.
• Manage inventory levels, warehousing, and distribution logistics to ensure product availability and timely delivery.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of operational staff, fostering a culture of performance and continuous improvement.
• Monitor key operational performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with other departments, including Sales, Marketing, and Finance, to align operational plans with business goals.
• Manage operational budgets, identify cost‑saving opportunities, and ensure efficient resource allocation.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using lean manufacturing principles and other methodologies.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Operations Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in operations management, with a strong focus on the FMCG industry.
• Proven experience in managing complex operational environments, including production, logistics, and warehousing.
• Demonstrated success in driving operational efficiency, cost reduction, and quality improvement initiatives.
• Strong leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Proficiency in relevant operational software and systems.
• Ability to balance on‑site presence with strategic planning in a hybrid work setup.
• Must be based in or willing to commute regularly to the Paarl, Western Cape region.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of R .
• Performance‑related bonus.
• Comprehensive medical aid and provident fund.
• Company vehicle or travel allowance.
• Opportunities for leadership development and career progression.
• Work in a strategically important region for the company.
• A dynamic and challenging operational role.
• Supportive management and team environment.