Senior Chemical Plant Manager

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive executive salary

Hybrid work model

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, seeks a Senior Chemical Plant Manager to oversee operations, drive safety, quality, and environmental compliance, and lead a skilled team in a challenging chemical manufacturing facility.

The role blends on-site leadership with remote strategic planning under a hybrid model, with a strong emphasis on cost control, process improvement (Lean/Six Sigma), and delivering production targets.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or related discipline; Master’s or MBA is a plus.
• Minimum 10 years of chemical manufacturing experience; at least 5 years in plant management/supervisory roles.
• Proven track record in managing chemical plant operations and achieving production targets.
• Strong knowledge of chemical processes, equipment, safety procedures, and environmental regulations.
• Demonstrated leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent financial acumen; experience managing budgets.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in process improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma).
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all plant operations, including production, maintenance, quality control, and EHS.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product quality.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations and company policies.
• Lead plant personnel, providing leadership, training, and performance management.
• Oversee maintenance and repair of plant equipment to minimize downtime.
• Develop and manage the plant's operational budget.
• Collaborate with supply chain and logistics for material sourcing and delivery.
• Lead process improvement initiatives and Best Practices in chemical manufacturing.
• Serve as primary contact for regulatory bodies.

Skills

Plant leadership

Team management

Budget management

Lean Six Sigma

Operational excellence

Communication

Education

Bachelors in Chemical Engineering

Masters/MBA preferred

Tools

Lean

Six Sigma

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant contributor to the specialty chemicals market, is seeking an experienced Senior Chemical Plant Manager to oversee their operations in **Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape**. This critical leadership role requires a dynamic individual to manage all aspects of plant production, ensuring operational efficiency, safety, quality, and environmental compliance. You will lead a dedicated team, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and be responsible for achieving production targets. The ideal candidate possesses a strong blend of technical expertise in chemical engineering and proven management skills. This position offers a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for a balance between on-site operational oversight and remote strategic planning.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all plant operations, including production, maintenance, quality control, and EHS.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to improve plant efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product quality.
• Ensure strict adherence to all safety, health, and environmental regulations and company policies.
• Manage plant personnel, providing leadership, training, and performance management.
• Oversee the maintenance and repair of plant equipment to ensure optimal performance and minimize downtime.
• Develop and manage the plant's operational budget.
• Collaborate with supply chain and logistics to ensure efficient raw material sourcing and product delivery.
• Lead process improvement initiatives and implement best practices in chemical manufacturing.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for regulatory bodies concerning plant operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline. A Master's degree or MBA is a plus.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in chemical manufacturing, with at least 5 years in a plant management or supervisory role.
• Proven track record of successfully managing chemical plant operations and achieving production targets.
• Strong knowledge of chemical processes, equipment, safety procedures, and environmental regulations.
• Demonstrated leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent financial acumen and experience managing operational budgets.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in process improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma).
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must be able to commute to **Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape** for required on-site responsibilities.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive executive salary, performance-based bonuses, comprehensive medical insurance, and a robust retirement fund.
• Professional development is supported through continuous training and opportunities for career advancement.
• The hybrid work model provides flexibility.
• Join a company committed to operational excellence, safety, and sustainability in the vibrant **Eastern Cape**.
• This is an excellent opportunity to lead and grow within a respected organization.