Senior Operations Manager - Manufacturing

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

About the Role

Our client, a reputable manufacturing firm renowned for its innovative products, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Operations Manager to lead its manufacturing operations based out of Bloemfontein. This critical role involves overseeing all aspects of the production process, ensuring efficiency, quality, and timely delivery of manufactured goods. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in manufacturing operations, supply chain management, and team leadership, driving continuous improvement initiatives. This is a significant opportunity to contribute to the success of a key player in the Free State's industrial sector, managing a complex and vital production facility. We are seeking a results-driven leader with a strong focus on operational excellence.

Key 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.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master's is a plus.


• Minimum of 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 (specific industry, e.g., automotive, consumer goods).


• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other relevant 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.


• A proactive approach to operational challenges and continuous improvement.


• Familiarity with the industrial landscape in Bloemfontein and the Free State region.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package and performance-based bonuses.


• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.


• Opportunities for advanced training and professional development.


• Relocation assistance for qualified candidates.


• A dynamic and challenging work environment within a leading manufacturing company.


• Potential for career advancement to higher leadership roles.


• Company-provided housing assistance or allowance.