Production Manager & RCI Owner

About the role

JBT Marel South Africa is looking for a Production Manager & RCI Owner to oversee workshop operations in Cape Town and drive Relentless Continuous Improvement (RCI) initiatives. The role combines operational leadership with strategic improvement work, ensuring efficient, safe and high-quality manufacturing aligned with global corporate standards.

Key responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate and execute manufacturing projects with cross-functional teams, and oversee daily workshop operations and quality standards
• Manage contract labour and support aftermarket project execution, and report regularly on project performance and timelines
• Lead annual budget planning (maintenance, CAPEX, workforce needs) and monitor operational costs
• Own and drive the RCI strategy across South Africa, aligning local initiatives with global standards and reporting on RCI metrics
• Manage a team of full-time employees and contract workers, including performance management, goal setting, discipline, compliance and workforce development
• Ensure safety standards and a zero-incident culture, conduct risk assessments, enforce PPE compliance and drive HSE training and preventative maintenance
• Oversee facility operations, maintenance and security, and manage company assets such as vehicles and equipment

Required profile

• Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical or Industrial Engineering)
• Minimum 5 years' experience in a manufacturing environment
• Proven project management experience or certification
• Experience with ASME standards is advantageous

Required skills

• Leadership and team management
• Project management and operational planning
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes and quality control
• Financial management and budgeting
• Continuous improvement and process optimisation
• Communication and stakeholder engagement

What we offer

• Work with a global leader in manufacturing and engineering solutions
• Opportunity to lead operations and drive strategic improvements
• Exposure to international standards and best practices
• Career growth in a technically advanced environment