Production Manager

SUMMARY:
Our client, based in Howick, is seeking a seasoned and forward-thinking Production Manager to lead their manufacturing operations in a predominantly strategic role.
While a strong operational foundation is essential, the focus will be on driving business performance through improved efficiency, reduced costs, and increased output.

The ideal candidate will bring a proven track record in leading high-volume production environments, managing a workforce of 150+ employees, and ensuring alignment with quality, safety, and compliance standards.
This role is critical to achieving and exceeding a monthly revenue target of between R70-R80 million, with a strong emphasis on continuous improvement and long-term growth.

POSITION INFO:
Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in business studies, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical
• Engineering, or a related field, is a non-negotiable requirement.
• Minimum 5+ years of experience in a senior production/plant management role within a manufacturing environment, with proven experience leading an operation achieving R3.5 million+ in monthly turnover.
• Demonstrated ability to lead large teams of 150+ employees across shifts and departments.
• Experience in rubber manufacturing or heavy industry will be a significant advantage.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing, production systems, and quality assurance methodologies.

• Exceptional leadership and people management capabilities.
• Highly motivational and performance-driven with the ability to inspire teams to exceed targets.
• Advanced planning, organising, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong numerical and analytical ability, with solid proficiency in Microsoft Excel and ERP systems.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Unwavering commitment to quality, safety, and compliance.
• Results-oriented, with the ability to manage pressure and meet tight deadlines consistently.

• Develop and execute the production strategy aligned to business goals.
• Lead, inspire and develop production teams to achieve optimal performance.
• Design and implement production schedules in line with daily/weekly production plans, to improve product throughput, reduce delays, and ensure on-time delivery while adhering to safety standards.
• Continuously assess production capacity, resourcing and infrastructure to support growth and innovation.
• Oversee daily operations and ensure efficient utilisation of equipment, people and materials.
• Ensure optimal machine uptime and coordinate preventative maintenance to reduce downtime.
• Monitor operational KPIs and drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity, reduce waste, and control costs.
• Ensure only quality-approved products are released for dispatch to customers through strict oversight of release protocols.
• Guarantee that all products meet required quality specifications and standards.
• Champion a culture of excellence and accountability, maintaining high product
• quality and reliability across production lines.
• Drive compliance with company policies, quality systems, and continuous improvement.
• Manage departmental budgets, cost control, and investment planning with strict financial discipline.
• Ensure resources are allocated efficiently and operations remain within cost parameters without compromising quality or delivery.
• Report monthly on production performance, key variances, and strategic insights.
• Ensure compliance with the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, OHSA, and all other relevant legislation and company policies.
• Lead workplace safety initiatives and audits; promote a culture of health, safety, and environmental awareness.
• Stay abreast of legal and industry developments that impact production operations and proactively adapt processes.
• Oversee inventory management of raw materials and finished goods to prevent overstocking or stockouts.
• Implement inventory systems and controls to maintain accurate stock levels and enable efficient production planning.
• Collaborate with procurement and planning teams to forecast needs, manage lead times and ensure seamless operations.
• Provide daily, weekly, and monthly production reports, highlighting operational performance and areas for improvement.
• Use data-driven analysis to inform tactical and strategic decisions.
• Take high-level decisions balancing immediate priorities with long-term operational sustainability.