Senior Production Manager (FMCG)
Our client in Port Elizabeth is seeking an exceptional Senior Production Manager to lead a large-scale manufacturing operation and drive world-class production performance. This is a rare opportunity for a strategic and results-driven professional who possesses the leadership capability, technical expertise, and commercial understanding required to transform operations, maximize efficiencies, and build high-performing teams.
We are not looking for someone who simply manages production. We are looking for a leader who can elevate it!
Responsibilities:
- Lead and optimize all production operations to ensure the achievement of safety, quality, cost, delivery, and productivity targets.
- Drive operational excellence through continuous improvement initiatives, process optimization, and lean manufacturing principles.
- Develop, mentor, and lead high-performing production teams while fostering a culture of accountability, engagement, and excellence.
- Ensure full compliance with food safety, quality assurance, health & safety, and regulatory standards.
- Manage production budgets, resource planning, and cost-control initiatives to maximize profitability and operational efficiency.
- Collaborate with cross-functional departments to support business growth, improve supply chain performance, and deliver world-class customer service
Requirements
- Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Production Management, Industrial Engineering, Food Technology, or a related field.
- Postgraduate qualification (MBA, Master's Degree, or equivalent) will be highly advantageous.
- Minimum of 10 years' manufacturing experience within a high-volume FMCG environment.
- At least 5 years' experience in a senior production leadership role managing large operational teams.
- Proven experience managing complex manufacturing operations with multiple production lines.
- Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, TPM, WCM, or similar methodologies.
- Sound understanding of HACCP, GMP, ISO standards, and food safety regulations.
- Demonstrated success in improving productivity, efficiency, quality, and cost performance.
- Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
- Strong financial acumen with experience managing operational budgets and cost optimization projects.