Senior Manufacturing Operations Leader — Lean & Growth

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus structure

Medical benefits

Retirement benefits

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Manufacturing Operations Manager to lead a Polokwane production facility. You will drive efficiency, quality, safety and cost-effectiveness across large-scale mining equipment operations in Limpopo.

The role requires 10+ years in manufacturing operations, with 5+ years in a senior leadership role, and a proven track record in lean, Six Sigma and budgeting. An MBA is a plus; strong leadership and strategic planning are essential for success.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, or Electrical) or Operations Management.
• MBA or Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in manufacturing operations management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven experience in managing large manufacturing facilities (e.g., 100+ employees).
• Demonstrated expertise in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence tools.
• Strong financial acumen, with experience in budget management and cost control.
• Excellent leadership, team-building, and strategic planning skills.
• In-depth knowledge of heavy equipment manufacturing processes.
• Strong understanding of safety regulations and quality management systems.
• Ability to drive change and foster a culture of continuous improvement in the Limpopo region.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all manufacturing operations, including planning, shop floor management, quality control, and supply chain coordination.
• Develop strategic plans to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality.
• Lead and develop the manufacturing team, fostering a culture of high performance, safety, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Drive the implementation of lean manufacturing principles and other operational excellence methodologies.
• Manage departmental budgets and capital expenditure plans.
• Collaborate with engineering, sales, and other departments to meet customer demands and market requirements.
• Monitor KPIs and take corrective actions as needed to achieve targets.
• Maintain and upgrade production facilities and equipment to ensure optimal performance in Polokwane.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Budget management

Cost control

Safety awareness

Team-building

Continuous improvement

Change management

Decision making

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, or Electrical) or Operations Management

MBA or Master's degree

Tools

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Job description

Placements24 seeks an experienced Manufacturing Operations Manager to lead a Polokwane production facility. You will drive efficiency, quality, safety and cost-effectiveness across large-scale mining equipment operations in Limpopo.

The role requires 10+ years in manufacturing operations, with 5+ years in a senior leadership role, and a proven track record in lean, Six Sigma and budgeting. An MBA is a plus; strong leadership and strategic planning are essential for success.