Production Manager – Food Manufacturing (CAPE TOWN)

Operations & Scheduling

• Develop manufacturing schedules to ensure timely customer order fulfilment.

• Balance resource allocation including workforce shifts and raw material inputs.

• Identify operational bottlenecks and execute rapid troubleshooting procedures.

• Coordinate cross-functionally with procurement, engineering, and logistics teams.

Quality Control & Compliance

• Enforce production standards in alignment with quality management systems.

• Uphold safety regulations to guarantee compliance with health and environmental laws.

• Monitor line rejects rates and execute root-cause analyses on structural defects.

Financial & Performance Management

• Manage plant budgets and monitor labour, material, and overhead costs.

• Track key performance indicators (KPIs) such as run speed, downtime, and yield.

• Compile production reports regularly for senior corporate leadership.

Equipment & Maintenance

• Oversee preventive maintenance to minimize unexpected machinery failures.

• Approve equipment upgrades and manage capital expenditure testing setups.

Leadership & Team Management

• Supervise floor personnel including operators, supervisors, and quality inspectors.

• Conduct performance appraisals and execute necessary disciplinary or coaching plans.

• Organize safety training and skills development modules for factory staff.

Skills and Qualifications

Experience & Education

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business management, or industrial management.

• 5+ years of experience in a high-turnover, multi-line manufacturing facility.

Technical Proficiencies

• Lean manufacturing methodologies including 5S, Kaizen, and Six Sigma applications.

• Software proficiency with Material Requirements Planning (MRP) and ERP frameworks.

• Data analytics capabilities to evaluate spreadsheet metrics and optimize process flows.

Core Competencies

• Decisive problem-solving under intense deadline and output pressures.

• Clear communication style tailored for both floor operators and executive boards.