Senior Manufacturing Operations Leader — Bloemfontein

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Housing allowance

Medical aid

Retirement fund benefits

Professional development

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Senior Operations Manager to lead its manufacturing operations in Bloemfontein. You will oversee production planning, scheduling, and execution across a complex facility, ensuring efficiency, quality, and on-time delivery while driving continuous improvement.

The role requires 8+ years in manufacturing operations, strong leadership, Lean/Six Sigma, ERP/MES proficiency, and the ability to develop cross-functional teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in manufacturing operations management, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably in a related industry.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other operational excellence methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop cross-functional teams.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in ERP systems and manufacturing execution systems (MES).
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all manufacturing operations, including production planning, scheduling, and execution.
• Ensure adherence to quality standards, safety regulations, and production targets.
• Optimize production processes to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and lower costs.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the production and operations team.
• Manage inventory levels for raw materials and finished goods.
• Oversee equipment maintenance and ensure operational reliability.
• Collaborate with engineering, R&D, and supply chain departments to support product development and launch.
• Implement lean manufacturing principles and other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Manage operational budgets and capital expenditure requests.
• Report on manufacturing performance to senior management, providing insights and recommendations.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering OR Operations Management OR Business Administration

Tools

ERP systems

MES

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Senior Operations Manager to lead its manufacturing operations in Bloemfontein. You will oversee production planning, scheduling, and execution across a complex facility, ensuring efficiency, quality, and on-time delivery while driving continuous improvement.

The role requires 8+ years in manufacturing operations, strong leadership, Lean/Six Sigma, ERP/MES proficiency, and the ability to develop cross-functional teams.