Permanent - Medium Manufacturing Manager - Ekurhuleni (East Rand) - South Africa

Job Overview:

The incumbent will oversee two distinct manufacturing plants: Sheeting and Gland Packing. These plants operate under different production methods, requiring a strong leader with expertise in formula-based production, particularly in polymer chemistry. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in optimizing production, ensuring quality control, managing teams, and driving operational efficiencies.

Key Responsibilities:

Production & Quality Control:

• Manage and oversee operations at both the Sheeting and Gland Packing plants, ensuring seamless production across different methodologies.
• Lead formula-based production processes with a strong emphasis on polymer chemistry and managing multiple product variants.
• Interpret and analyze product testing results, including leak detection and other performance assessments (lab experience is an advantage).
• Drive quality control initiatives, ensuring all products meet regulatory and internal standards.

Equipment Maintenance & Downtime Reduction:

• Oversee the maintenance and servicing of production machinery to minimize downtime.
• Coordinate with maintenance teams to address equipment failures efficiently.
• Implement strategies for continuous improvement in machine performance and longevity.

Team Management & Industrial Relations:

• Lead and develop plant teams, fostering a culture of productivity and accountability.
• Handle HR and Industrial Relations (IR) matters, including working with Unions and Bargaining Councils.
• Ensure compliance with labour laws and workplace policies.

Operational Efficiency & Process Improvement:

• Implement process improvement initiatives to optimize efficiency and reduce waste.
• Maintain Health & Safety compliance, ensuring adherence to industry regulations and company policies.
• Oversee inventory and supply chain management, with a focus on raw material procurement and usage optimization.
• Monitor budget control, ensuring departmental expenditures remain within budget.
• Conduct reporting and analysis, providing insights into plant performance and operational improvements

Qualifications & Experience:

• National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry, Manufacturing, or a related field (specialization in polymer and/or rubber preferred).
• Proven experience in manufacturing management, ideally within a formula-based production environment.
• Knowledge of polymer chemistry and its applications in production.
• Strong background in quality control, process improvement, and waste management.
• Experience working with Unions and Bargaining Councils.
• Solid understanding of Health & Safety regulations.
• Expertise in inventory and supply chain management, particularly with raw materials.
• Proficiency in budget control and financial planning.

Preferred Skills & Competencies:

• Lab experience in analyzing formulas and interpreting product test results.
• Strong leadership and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to drive efficiency, cost savings, and operational excellence.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

This role is an exciting opportunity for an experienced manufacturing professional to drive excellence in a dynamic and specialized production environment