Production Manager (Cheese Production) (Permanent)

Job Title: Production Manager (Cheese Production) Start Date: 2026-07-30 - 2026-08-29 Vacancy Type: Permanent PE003727 Sectors: Engineering & Technical Manufacturing Technical Location: Eastern Cape , Humansdorp Salary: (Market related) Brief: cheese|dairy|engineering|foreman|manager|manufacturing|supervisor Our client in the FMCG industry is looking to employ a Production Manager (Cheese Production) to join their team based in Humansdorp. The successful candidate will take overall responsibility for the Natural Cheese, Processed Cheese and Cheese Packing manufacturing facilities, ensuring production targets, quality standards and operational efficiencies are consistently achieved while maintaining the highest food safety and compliance standards. Detail: Requirements Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Operations/Production Management, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, a relevant Dairy qualification, or a related field. Minimum of 5 years' proven experience in a production management role within the manufacturing industry, preferably in dairy, cheese or a related food manufacturing environment. Strong leadership and people management skills with the ability to coach, develop and motivate teams. Sound decision-making and problem-solving abilities. Excellent organisational skills with the ability to perform effectively under pressure. High attention to detail with a strong focus on quality, food safety and operational excellence. Commitment to company policies, procedures and values. Willingness to work overtime when operational requirements demand. Responsibilities Take overall responsibility for the Natural Cheese, Processed Cheese and Cheese Packing manufacturing facilities. Ensure production targets, yields, efficiencies and waste reduction objectives are achieved. Maintain GMP standards, housekeeping, product quality and food safety requirements across all cheese manufacturing areas. Ensure compliance with all Health and Safety regulations while maintaining a safe working environment. Provide strong leadership, effective communication and day-to-day management of production teams. Develop employees through coaching, training, mentoring and performance management. Plan and manage production activities to ensure adherence to production schedules, product specifications and quality standards. Collaborate with purchasing, supply chain, engineering and quality departments to ensure the availability of raw materials, packaging, equipment and resources. Implement production strategies to optimise resources, reduce costs and maximise operational efficiency without compromising quality or food safety. Develop and oversee production schedules, ensuring efficient allocation of labour, equipment and materials. Identify production risks, bottlenecks and process deviations, implementing corrective actions where required. Monitor and analyse production performance data to identify trends and drive continuous improvement initiatives. Ensure compliance with safety, health, environmental, quality and food safety standards. Work closely with the engineering department to evaluate and implement new technologies, equipment upgrades and process improvements. Promote a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging innovation and implementing best manufacturing practices. Please note: If you do not receive a response within 2 weeks of submitting your application, please consider your application unsuccessful. show more... For more information please contact: Michael Tuohy Apply