Manufacturing Operations Manager | Engineering

Recruiter:

TalentFuse (Pty) Ltd

Job Ref:

JHB000055/KM

Date posted:

Friday, August 7, 2026

Location:

Johannesburg, South Africa

SUMMARY:

Introduction

A well-established and rapidly growing manufacturing business is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Operations Manager (Plant Environment) to take full responsibility for its Gauteng manufacturing operation.
This is an outstanding opportunity for a commercially minded engineering professional who enjoys building businesses, leading high-performing teams, and driving operational excellence. Reporting directly to the executive leadership team, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the business while leading all aspects of the manufacturing operation.
If you thrive in a dynamic environment where your ideas are valued, your decisions make a measurable impact, and no two days are the same, this could be the opportunity you have been looking for.

POSITION INFO:
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.

Similar jobs you might be interested in:

Manufacturing Operations Manager | Engineering
Location: Johannesburg
Salary:
IntroductionA well-established and rapidly growing manufacturing business is seeking an experienced manufacturing operations manager (Plant Environment) to take full responsibility for its Gauteng manufacturing operation.This is an outstanding opportunity for a commercially minded engineering professional who enjoys building businesses, leading high-performing teams, and driving operational e...
Today

Manufacturing Operations Planning Lead
Location: Johannesburg
Salary: Market-Related
manufacturing operations Planning Lead, Johannesburg
77 days ago

Financial Manager - Plant Manufacturing
Location: Johannesburg
Salary:
Position Overview:Location: City DeepA well-established and growing manufacturing business is looking for a commercially minded Financial manager to take ownership of the finance function and become a trusted business partner to the leadership team.This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working in a hands-on environment where they can influence business decisions, stren...
Today

Production Planner
Location: Johannesburg
Salary:
Production Planner required for our global OEM to ensure timely release of jobs in line with production schedules. A National Diploma or Degree in either Industrial engineering or operations Management is a requirement, combined with a minimum of 5 years’ experience in a pump manufacturing production planning role.
Today

Production Manager
Location: Johannesburg
Salary:
A well-established engineering and manufacturing organisation is seeking a skilled Production manager to oversee and optimise operations within a high-performance production plant. This is an exciting opportunity for a results-driven professional with strong leadership capabilities and a solid engineering background.
1 day ago

Plant Manager (Manufacturing)
Location: Boksburg
Salary:
1 day ago

Financial Accountant
Location: Johannesburg
Salary:
Plant Financial Accountant | Turning Production Data into Business Performance
1 day ago

Cost and Management Accountant
Location: Pretoria
Salary: R420 000 Annually
Are you a commercially minded finance professional with a passion for costing, analysis, and operational finance? This exciting opportunity offers exposure to complex manufacturing environments where your insights will directly influence profitability, reporting, and business decision-making.
2 days ago

FACTORY MANAGER with SolidWorks/LaserCutting Machines
Location: Johannesburg
Salary: Monthly
FACTORY manager with SolidWorks, Laser Cutting, Press Brake, Welding & Fabrication within a Metal Fabrication OR engineering environment Kempton Park/Edenvale area, East Rand, Gauteng
2 days ago

Warehouse & Distribution Manager (EE)
Location: Kempton Park, Gauteng
Salary: Package: Negotiable, up to R1.0 million (inclusive of benefits)
Our client is seeking an experienced Warehouse & Distribution manager to oversee operations at their Kempton Park facility. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in logistics, warehouse management, and team leadership.
2 days ago