Senior Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Operations Manager

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Premium medical aid

Provident fund

Life insurance

Annual leave

Relocation assistance

Career progression

Company car/transport allowance

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Senior Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Operations Manager to lead production at our Polokwane facility. You will drive daily operations, ensure GMP compliance, and manage a team to achieve safety, quality and efficiency targets.

The ideal candidate brings 7–10 years in pharmaceutical manufacturing with strong leadership, lean practices and ERP proficiency, plus a track record of cost optimization in a regulated environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy, Chemical Engineering or related field; MBA/Master’s advantageous.
• 7–10 years in pharmaceutical manufacturing operations with 3–5 years in a leadership role.
• Strong GMP knowledge and regulatory understanding (SAHPRA).

Responsibilities

• Oversee all pharmaceutical manufacturing operations, scheduling, resources and workflow optimization.
• Ensure GMP, safety and quality standards are met across production activities.
• Lead and develop manufacturing supervisors and staff.
• Oversee production planning to meet demand and delivery timelines.
• Drive continuous improvement to reduce waste and costs.

Skills

Leadership

GMP knowledge

Lean manufacturing

Budgeting/Cost control

ERP software

Production planning

Team development

Education

Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy/Engineering

Tools

ERP software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading pharmaceutical manufacturer, is seeking an experienced Senior Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Operations Manager to lead and optimize production activities at their state-of-the-art facility in Polokwane, Limpopo . This senior leadership role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of daily manufacturing operations, ensuring compliance with GMP, quality standards, and production targets. You will lead a team of supervisors and production staff, driving efficiency, safety, and continuous improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of pharmaceutical production processes, and a proven ability to manage complex operations in a highly regulated environment. This is a critical role for ensuring the reliable supply of essential medicines.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and direct all pharmaceutical manufacturing operations, including scheduling, resource allocation, and workflow optimization.
• Ensure strict adherence to GMP, safety regulations, and company quality standards across all production activities.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of manufacturing supervisors and production personnel.
• Oversee production planning and execution to meet demand forecasts and delivery timelines.
• Implement and drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, reduce waste, and lower manufacturing costs.
• Manage the investigation of production deviations and implement effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
• Collaborate with Quality Assurance, Engineering, Supply Chain, and other departments to ensure seamless operations.
• Develop and manage the departmental budget, ensuring cost-effective operations.
• Ensure proper maintenance and calibration of manufacturing equipment.
• Champion a culture of safety, quality, and accountability within the manufacturing department.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific or engineering field. An MBA or Master's degree is a significant advantage.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing operations, with at least 3-5 years in a management or supervisory role.
• Extensive knowledge of GMP, pharmaceutical manufacturing processes, and regulatory requirements (e.g., SAHPRA).
• Proven track record in leading manufacturing teams and driving operational excellence.
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Excellent leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in production planning systems and ERP software.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and motivate teams.
• Experience managing budgets and P&L responsibilities.
• Commitment to fostering a safe and high-quality work environment.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and comprehensive bonus structure.
• Executive-level benefits package including premium medical aid, provident fund, and life insurance.
• Significant annual leave allowance.
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates.
• Exceptional opportunities for leadership development and career progression.
• Exposure to advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Dynamic and challenging work environment.
• Company car or transport allowance.