Operations Manager - Mining Crushing Equipment

SUMMARY:
We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Operations Manager to lead and optimise our manufacturing operations in a heavy engineering environment. This role is critical in ensuring that equipment and components are produced on time, within quality standards, and aligned to cost objectives—supporting overall business profitability and growth.

POSITION INFO:
Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic & Operational Leadership:
  • Support the Operations Director in executing the company strategy and policy
  • Drive sustainable profitability, cost reduction, and productivity improvements
  • Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs)
  • Ensure compliance with all legal and statutory requirements
  • Provide clear reporting on operational performance and progress
• Production & Manufacturing Management:
  • Lead fabrication, assembly, drives, and facilities operations
  • Ensure that production targets are met through effective planning and execution
  • Improve on-time delivery performance and reduce work-in-progress (WIP) levels
  • Drive continuous improvement, lean manufacturing, and operational excellence
  • Implement quality improvement initiatives in collaboration with the quality team
  • Manage preventative maintenance programs to minimise downtime
  • Oversee insourcing/outsourcing strategies to optimise cost and efficiency
  • Ensure adherence to SOPs, 5S standards, and best manufacturing practices
• Supply Chain & Procurement Collaboration:
  • Work closely with procurement to ensure material availability and cost efficiency
  • Monitor supplier performance and ensure the timely delivery of subcontracted work
• Financial Management:
  • Prepare and manage OPEX and CAPEX budgets
  • Track and report monthly cost performance against budget
  • Oversee job costing, labour recovery, and cost control measures
  • Support make-or-buy decisions to maximise cost efficiency
  • Maintain costing tools to ensure accurate and reliable pricing inputs
• SHEQ & Compliance:
  • Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and quality standards
  • Act as the legally appointed responsible person (OHS Act 16.2)
  • Maintain ISO quality standards and risk management systems
  • Ensure contractor and supplier compliance with safety requirements
• Security Oversight:
  • Manage all site security activities and service providers
  • Conduct regular performance reviews with security partners
• People Management:
  • Lead, motivate, and develop a high-performance operations team
  • Set clear goals and manage performance effectively
  • Address disciplinary and grievance matters in line with the company policy
  • Ensure that recruitment and staffing align with operational needs
  • Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and engagement

• MEng, MBA, or Degree in Operations / Engineering

• Minimum 10 years’ experience in a metal component manufacturing environment
• 5–10 years in a similar senior management role
• Strong background in mechanical engineering and production processes
• Solid understanding of:
  • Production planning and scheduling
  • Quality management systems
  • Health & safety legislation
  • Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement tools
• Experience in low-volume, high-quality manufacturing environments

• Strong leadership and team-building capability
• Excellent organisational and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage complex operations under pressure
• Strong financial and commercial acumen
• Effective communication and stakeholder management
• High attention to detail and quality standards
• Ability to drive change and continuous improvement
• Practical, hands-on approach with strong technical understanding