Operations Director - Manufacturing

Location: Roodepoort, Gauteng
Reporting to: CEO
Industry: Plastics Manufacturing | Injection Moulding
Employment Type: Full-time

Role Overview

Our client, a well-established plastics manufacturing business, is seeking an experienced Operations Director - Manufacturing to lead its largest South African manufacturing operation. This role holds full accountability for strategic execution, operational performance, financial outcomes, and people leadership, and leads the entire site, not only production. The position works closely with executive leadership to ensure alignment with broader business strategy and growth objectives.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering (required) - Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial
• MBA or equivalent postgraduate qualification (preferred)
• Minimum 5 years' experience in a senior operational leadership role within a large manufacturing environment
• Proven experience leading a plant of 160-240 employees
• Strong background in plastics or packaging manufacturing
• Demonstrated implementation of Lean, Six Sigma, and Continuous Improvement methodologies
• Solid technical engineering foundation with hands-on operational exposure
• Experience managing 24/7 manufacturing operations
• Track record of driving operational excellence and organisational growth

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute business strategy in alignment with global and group direction
• Oversee end-to-end site operations, ensuring efficiency, quality, safety, and profitability
• Drive growth through commercial strategy, market expansion, and stakeholder engagement
• Embed lean manufacturing and continuous improvement practices across all operational areas
• Ensure compliance with ISO 9001 standards, quality systems, and regulatory requirements
• Take full financial accountability, including budgeting, forecasting, cost control, and performance optimisation
• Lead, mentor, and develop senior management, with a strong focus on performance, culture, and succession planning
• Represent the business with key customers, suppliers, and external stakeholders

Key Requirements

• Senior executive leadership experience within a manufacturing environment
• Strong operational and technical understanding of plastics and injection moulding processes
• Proven commercial and financial acumen, including full P&L ownership
• Experience driving B2B sales growth and managing strategic customer relationships
• Ability to lead, develop, and hold senior teams accountable
• Strong exposure to ISO standards, regulated manufacturing environments, and quality systems

Why Consider This Role

• Executive-level position with full site leadership and decision-making authority
• Opportunity to drive strategy, transformation, and long-term growth
• Stable, established manufacturing business with a strong operational footprint

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you do not receive feedback within one week, please consider your application unsuccessful.