About the position
Westfalia Fruit Products, situated in Klapmuts, has a vacancy for a suitably qualified and experienced Operations Manager.
Westfalia Fruit, is a leading multinational supplier of fresh fruit and related value-added products to global markets. Through our vertically-integrated supply chain we grow, source, ripen, pack, process and market quality avocadoes & fresh produce - 365 days a year & across the globe.
With the largest avocado-growing footprint in the world, we are recognised as the leading #avo experts and considered as the supplier of choice to both retail & wholesale customers whom we serve from sales offices in the UK, Europe, North America, Latin America & Southern Africa.
Purpose of the role
Reporting to the Head of Processing, the Operations Manager will develop, Implement and manage the operational plan of the Klapmuts Ripe and Ready Facility of Westfalia Fruit, through the effective utilization of all infrastructure, equipment, human and financial resources in order to maximize profits. The Operations Manager must demonstrate excellent leadership and management skills, financial management and human resources management skills in the manufacturing industry. They should have the ability to develop and implement plans aimed at ensuring sustainable, productivity and efficiency, quality improvement and production cost management
Key Responsibilities:
Operations Management
- Develop and manage daily, weekly, and monthly production plans, KPIs, and operational performance
- Oversee production planning, scheduling, warehousing, transport, distribution, and waste management
- Ensure effective utilisation of plant, equipment, and resources, aligned to production volumes and demand fluctuations
Financial Management
- Contribute to budget preparation, cost control, forecasting, and monthly financial reporting
- Manage operational costs, resource allocation, and productivity to meet budgeted targets and profitability objectives
- Support cash flow planning and financial performance tracking in line with business goals
Supply Chain & Inventory Management
- Manage inbound and outbound logistics, warehouse operations, and stock control across all product lines
- Oversee stock age analysis, storage conditions, and ripening protocols to meet quality and shelf-life requirements
- Plan for production peaks and lows, ensuring continuity of supply and efficient resource deployment
Food Safety & Quality Management
- Ensure compliance with food safety, quality, and client specifications across all product lines
- Implement and maintain approved packing protocols, procedures, and product handling standards
- Support audits, certifications, and continuous improvement initiatives related to food safety and quality assurance
Environmental, Health & Safety Management
- Execute 8(2) responsibilities and manage the implementation of the Health and Safety Management System (HSMS)
- Drive hazard identification, risk assessments, and corrective actions across all operations
- Ensure compliance with legal requirements and support the achievement and maintenance of ISO 45001 certification
People Leadership & Performance Management
- Lead, coach, and develop management and operational teams through clear KPAs, KPIs, and performance agreements
- Foster a disciplined, engaged, and productive workforce while ensuring fair labour practices and sound employee relations
- Build succession pipelines for critical roles and drive capability development aligned to operational needs
Minimum Requirements:
Education
- Degree and Btech in Operations Management, Engineering, Agricultural
- Post Graduate Degree will be Advantageous
Experience
- Over 8 + years' experience in Operations and production within the FMCG industry
- Sound working knowledge of ERP system, i.e. D365
- Fully computer literate MS Office, PowerPoint
- Experience in being a retail supplier
- Knowledge in fruit quality and ripening procedures and protocols
- Experience within budget preparation and management
Behavioural Competencies
- Understanding of procurement processes, supply chain management, and inventory control
- Skilled in production planning, resource allocation, and process optimization
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent leadership, people management, and team-building abilities
- Effective communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work under pressure, prioritize tasks, and meet production deadlines
- Proactive and solutions-oriented mindset with a strong drive for continuous improvement
- High level of integrity, accountability, and professionalism
- Strong commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence
- Positive attitude with the ability to motivate and inspire teams
- Adaptable and flexible in responding to changing operational demands
- Calm and composed under pressure, especially during peak production periods
- Detail-focused with a commitment to accuracy and consistency
- Collaborative and supportive, fostering a culture of teamwork and respect
- Decisive and confident in making timely, informed decisions
- Open to feedback and committed to personal and team development
The Company offers a Total Guaranteed Remuneration Package which comprises provident fund, insured benefits, medical aid and an option to structure an annual bonus.
Desired Skills:
- Operations
- Manager
- Agriculture
