Production Manager (FMCG)

SUMMARY:
New Vacancy!! Our leading client in the FMCG Sector is looking to employ a Production Manager (Cheese Department) to join their dynamic team in Queenstown.

POSITION INFO:
Job Responsibilities:

Operational Management:

• Oversee all cheese production and packaging processes ensuring consistent output and adherence to production schedules
• Plan and manage daily, weekly and monthly production schedules in line with business forecasts and customer demand
• Optimise equipment utilisation and minimise downtime through proactive maintenance coordination with Engineering
• Implement best-practice lean manufacturing principles to improve throughput, efficiency and waste reduction

• Ensure full compliance with FSSC 22000 (V6), HACCP, GMP and all relevant regulatory requirements
• Lead internal and external audits ensuring 100% audit readiness
• Implement, monitor and maintain critical control points (CCPs), hygiene standards, allergen controls and product traceability
• Ensure finished products consistently meet quality specifications for texture, flavour, moisture and packaging standards

• Track and manage production KPIs including yield, throughput, wastage, labour productivity, downtime and cost per unit
• Analyse production data to identify trends, issues and opportunities for continuous improvement
• Implement corrective actions to address inefficiencies, quality deviations or non-compliance incidents

• Lead, mentor and develop production supervisors, team leaders, and frontline staff
• Set clear performance objectives and accountability for all production areas
• Foster a culture of safety, discipline, high performance, and continuous improvement
• Ensure adequate succession planning and skills development within the department

• Drive operational excellence initiatives to improve process reliability, reduce waste, and enhance product quality
• Evaluate new technologies, equipment, and process innovations that could improve efficiency or product consistency
• Lead root cause analysis investigations for recurring production issues

• Grade 12 / Matric / Equivalent.
• Degree/Diploma in Food Technology, Dairy Science, Production Management, or related field
• Minimum 7–10 years’ experience in cheese production (hard, processed or mozzarella), with at least 5 years at a management level
• Strong working knowledge of FSSC 22000 and high-care manufacturing environments
• Proven track record in managing production budgets, KPIs and large operational teams
• Strong leadership, decision-making and problem-solving capability
• Hands-on, decisive and results-oriented leadership style
• Excellent analytical, planning and operational problem-solving capability
• Ability to lead teams under pressure and deliver results in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
• Commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence