Manufacturing Operations Manager | Engineering
Executive Placements · Kensington
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Start free — we apply for you →Duties & Responsibilities
As the Manufacturing Operations Manager (Plant), you will take ownership of the overall performance of the Gauteng operation, including:
- Leading all day-to-day manufacturing operations to ensure optimal plant performance.
- Driving operational KPIs, productivity, quality, safety, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Managing engineering projects, plant maintenance, and technical improvements.
- Supporting new product development and manufacturing innovation.
- Working closely with commercial teams to support customer requirements and business growth.
- Leading, mentoring, and developing a multidisciplinary team.
- Driving a high-performance culture focused on accountability, collaboration, and operational excellence.
- Identifying opportunities to improve efficiencies, reduce costs, and optimise manufacturing processes.
- Building strong relationships across operations, engineering, sales, and executive leadership.
Desired Experience & Qualification
• Degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline. • Minimum 10 years' manufacturing experience. • At least 4 years' experience in a senior leadership or General Management role within a manufacturing environment. • Strong understanding of manufacturing operations, engineering, maintenance, and continuous improvement. • Advanced Microsoft Excel skills. • Excellent analytical and problem-solving ability. • Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills. • Proven ability to lead diverse teams and deliver operational results. • Experience within industrial packaging or a related manufacturing industry will be advantageous. The Ideal Person We are looking for someone who:
- Is a hands-on leader who enjoys being involved in the day-to-day operation.
- Thinks strategically while remaining operationally focused.
- Has strong commercial acumen and understands how operational decisions impact profitability.
- Inspires and develops people while creating a positive working culture.
- Is adaptable, resilient, and thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Takes ownership, solves problems proactively, and follows through to successful completion.
- Enjoys building businesses rather than simply maintaining them.
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