Senior Operational Excellence Manager

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Hybrid work environment

Pension contribution

Paid leave

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct is seeking a Senior Operational Excellence Manager for our client in Port Elizabeth. The role drives continuous improvement initiatives, optimizes processes, and fosters a culture of excellence across the organization.

The ideal candidate has a strong Lean/Six Sigma background with a proven ability to implement sustainable change and coach teams. The role operates on a hybrid model with regular in-office collaboration and remote work on selected days.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Admin, or related field.
• 6-8 years in operational excellence or quality management.
• Lean/Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or Black Belt preferred).
• Proven track record leading improvement projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead continuous improvement projects using Lean, Six Sigma and related methodologies.
• Develop and implement operational excellence strategies aligned with business goals.
• Identify opportunities for process optimization and waste reduction.
• Coach and mentor teams on best practices for operational excellence.

Skills

Lean Six Sigma

Stakeholder influence

Change management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Business Administration

Tools

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

WhatJobs Direct is seeking a dedicated and experienced Senior Operational Excellence Manager for our client, based in Port Elizabeth . This role is instrumental in driving continuous improvement initiatives, optimizing processes, and fostering a culture of excellence across the organization. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in Lean, Six Sigma, or other quality management methodologies, with a proven ability to implement sustainable change. This position operates on a hybrid model, requiring regular presence in the Port Elizabeth office for team collaboration and strategic planning, while offering flexibility for remote work on specific days. You will be responsible for leading improvement projects, coaching teams, and ensuring that operational processes meet the highest standards of efficiency and effectiveness.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage continuous improvement projects using Lean, Six Sigma, and other methodologies.
• Develop and implement operational excellence strategies aligned with business goals.
• Identify opportunities for process optimization and waste reduction.
• Coach and mentor teams on best practices for operational excellence.
• Facilitate workshops and training sessions on continuous improvement techniques.
• Measure and report on the impact of improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with various departments to embed a culture of quality and efficiency.
• Ensure sustainability of implemented changes and drive ongoing improvements.
• Contribute to strategic planning for operational enhancements.
• Maintain documentation of processes and improvement efforts.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6-8 years of experience in operational excellence, continuous improvement, or quality management.
• Certification in Lean, Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt preferred).
• Proven track record of successfully leading and implementing improvement projects.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and training skills.
• Experience working in a hybrid office environment.
• Ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience with data analysis and performance metrics.
• Must be based in or willing to work from Port Elizabeth .

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive employment package: Attractive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Opportunities for professional growth and certifications.
• A supportive hybrid work environment.
• Pension fund contribution.
• Paid leave and company holidays.
• Access to training and development programs.