Senior Lean Operations Leader - Automotive Manufacturing

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid & retirement fund

Company car + fuel allowance

Relocation assistance to Pretoria

Annual leave & holidays

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Head of Operations for an automotive manufacturing client in Pretoria, Gauteng. You will oversee daily production, drive lean initiatives, ensure safety, quality, and on-time output.

The role requires a mechanical/industrial/electrical engineering background, an MBA is advantageous, and 8+ years in manufacturing ops with 4+ in senior leadership. MES/ERP proficiency is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, or Electrical) or Operations Management.
• MBA or Master’s degree is advantageous.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in manufacturing operations management, with at least 4 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven expertise in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong understanding of automotive manufacturing processes and quality systems (IATF 16949).
• Demonstrated success in managing large production teams and complex environments.
• Excellent financial acumen, including budget management and cost control.
• Exceptional leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in MES and ERP software.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily manufacturing operations, ensuring efficient production flow and adherence to schedules.
• Implement and champion lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Manage production planning, scheduling, and resource allocation to meet demand targets.
• Ensure the highest standards of product quality and consistency.
• Develop and manage operational budgets, controlling costs while maximizing output.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of production supervisors, engineers, and line workers.
• Implement and enforce strict health, safety, and environmental (HSE) policies.
• Drive initiatives to improve OEE and reduce waste.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality assurance, and supply chain teams to resolve production issues.
• Monitor production KPIs and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and operational excellence.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Problem-solving

Decision-making

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering / Operations Management

MBA or Master’s degree (advantageous)

Tools

MES

ERP software

Job description

Placements24 is recruiting a Head of Operations for an automotive manufacturing client in Pretoria, Gauteng. You will oversee daily production, drive lean initiatives, ensure safety, quality, and on-time output.

The role requires a mechanical/industrial/electrical engineering background, an MBA is advantageous, and 8+ years in manufacturing ops with 4+ in senior leadership. MES/ERP proficiency is essential.