General Manager – Manufacturing Operations

About the role

We are looking for an experienced General Manager to lead our manufacturing plant in Durban. The role combines strategic oversight with hands‑on management of production, sales, finance and people functions.

Key responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership and strategic direction for the plant.
• Oversee production planning, control and operational performance.
• Coordinate Sales, Administration, Production, Stock, Procurement and Dispatch.
• Drive sales performance, customer retention and new business opportunities.
• Monitor budgets, costs, profitability and expenditure.
• Ensure effective stock control of raw materials and finished goods.
• Track production output, productivity, wastage, downtime and quality.
• Align customer orders with production capacity and delivery schedules.
• Lead departmental managers, supervisors and operational teams.
• Monitor employee performance, attendance and staffing needs.
• Maintain administrative controls, record‑keeping and reporting.
• Identify operational risks and opportunities for improvement.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, quality standards and health & safety.
• Prepare and present operational, sales, production and financial reports to senior management.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve efficiency, profitability and overall business performance.

Required profile

• Relevant Degree/Diploma in Business Management, Operations Management, Production Management, Commerce or related field.
• 7–10 years’ management experience in manufacturing, production, FMCG or similar environment.
• 3–5 years in a senior management role.
• Proven experience in Production Control, Administration and Sales Management.
• Strong financial and commercial understanding, including budgeting and cost control.
• Experience managing multiple departments and large operational teams.
• Knowledge of production planning, stock control and operational processes.
• Excellent leadership, decision‑making and problem‑solving abilities.

Required skills