About the position
Drive Excellence in a High-Performance Manufacturing Environment
A leading name in the hygiene product sector is looking for an experienced General Manager of Operations to take charge of site-wide performance. This is your chance to lead in a business that manufactures and distributes a broad range of hygiene essential products. With an established footprint across SA and neighbouring markets, the organisation is on an upward trajectory, seeking operational leaders ready to fuel the next stage of growth.
Your Mission
You will be at the helm of a large-scale manufacturing site, accountable for all operational functions-production, warehousing, logistics, compliance, and team performance, this will be on the converting & Packaging side of the business. You'll be expected to champion LEAN methodologies, elevate performance standards, and work cross-functionally to ensure customer needs are met with speed and precision.
Your Background & Strengths
- Degree in Engineering/Manufacturing or related discipline; postgrad business qualifications are a plus.
- Having been a legally appointed 16.2 in current or previous roles
- Extensive experience in FMCG manufacturing operations at a Senior Management level.
- Proven record of leading large teams and managing full-site functions. (200+)
- Certified in Lean, Six Sigma (Yellow or Black Belt) - preferred not required, experience key.
- Deep working knowledge of EHS regulations and manufacturing compliance frameworks.
- Track record of driving business transformation, continuous improvement, and operational scale-up.
- Strategic mindset with a hands-on approach to leadership and problem-solving.
- Experience in 5S implementation from rollout through to execution.
- ISO 9000 & 45001 compliance experience
Your Scope of Impact
- Lead and optimise full-site operations, ensuring seamless alignment with strategic business goals.
- Mentor and manage a team of over 200 employees, including direct oversight of 8+ senior managers.
- Spearhead manufacturing process improvement within hygiene production lines.
- Coordinate warehouse and outbound logistics in collaboration with the supply chain team.
- Implement best-practice manufacturing methodologies, including Lean and World Class Manufacturing.
- Monitor KPIs and use data to drive measurable gains in quality, throughput, and cost control.
- Maintain rigorous standards for safety (ISO 45001), housekeeping (5S), and product quality (ISO 9001).
- Control and optimise a site budget exceeding R400 million, balancing cost with operational efficiency.
- Build and empower high-performing teams, fostering a culture of safety, discipline, and innovation.
- Champion customer-centric thinking throughout operations to enhance service and responsiveness.
- Support scaling initiatives with a strong focus on converting raw materials efficiently within a packaging or related industrial context.
What Awaits You
- Highly Competitive Compensation package, including performance-based incentives.
- Long-Term Growth Opportunities within a stable and resilient sector.
- A collaborative culture that values innovation, improvement, and results.
- A platform to lead meaningful change, directly impacting business growth and team success.
If you're a dynamic operations leader with a passion for manufacturing excellence, this is your opportunity to lead where it matters most.
Desired Skills:
