Production Manager

About the role

A leading packaging manufacturer is looking for an experienced Production Manager to take full accountability for plant performance. The role oversees production output, on‑time delivery, machine efficiency, waste reduction, labour productivity, quality, safety and cost control. This is an excellent opportunity for a hands‑on manufacturing leader aiming to make a significant impact and progress toward an Operations Management position.

Key responsibilities

• Lead daily production operations and drive continuous‑improvement initiatives.
• Achieve production targets while improving efficiency, uptime, throughput and labour utilisation.
• Develop a high‑performance culture and mentor supervisors to build leadership capability.
• Manage performance, discipline, training, succession planning and employee engagement.
• Reduce waste, defects, downtime and customer complaints.
• Ensure compliance with ISO standards, CAPA processes and health & safety requirements.
• Foster collaboration between Production, Maintenance, Quality, Dispatch and Warehouse teams.

Required profile

• Diploma or degree in Production Management, Operations Management, Engineering or a related field.
• 7–10 years of manufacturing experience, including 3–5 years in a production‑management leadership role.
• Proven experience in packaging, corrugated, print, converting or FMCG environments.
• Fluent in English and Afrikaans (spoken and written) and a valid driver’s licence.

Required skills

• Strong knowledge of ERP/MRP systems.
• Experience with manufacturing KPIs and performance metrics.
• Advanced Excel proficiency.