Production Manager – Petrochemical Site

About the role

Our client is looking for an experienced, technically strong Production Manager to lead a brand‑new petrochemical site in Johannesburg. The role will drive safe, efficient and reliable manufacturing output while building out systems and support structures for optimal delivery.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee daily production flow to meet volume, quality and timeline targets.
• Schedule and coordinate production activities based on demand and capacity.
• Optimize equipment, labour and material utilisation while ensuring SOP and regulatory compliance.
• Lead preventive, predictive and reactive maintenance strategies and collaborate with the Maintenance Supervisor on CMMS work orders.
• Manage plant shutdowns, commissioning and upgrade projects.
• Lead, coach and develop production and maintenance teams, handling workforce planning and shift scheduling.
• Champion HSE standards, conduct safety audits and drive continuous improvement initiatives such as Lean, Six Sigma and Kaizen.
• Control operational budgets, track costs and drive OEE and waste‑reduction projects.

Required profile

• Proven experience in petrochemical or related manufacturing environments.
• Strong operational discipline with a track record of leading large‑scale production teams.
• Demonstrated ability to manage assets, budgets and continuous‑improvement programmes.
• Excellent people‑management and leadership capabilities.

Required skills

• Lean
• Six Sigma
• Kaizen
• Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE)
• Computerised Maintenance Management System (CMMS)