About the position
Our client is seeking a Production Manager in the Western Cape.
Key Responsibilities
* Production Planning & Operations
- Develop and implement daily, weekly, and monthly production plans aligned with operational capacity and client requirements.
- Oversee production processes including sorting, baling, shredding, guillotining, reel cutting, and related recycling activities.
- Monitor production output and adjust schedules to address operational constraints or fluctuations in incoming waste volumes.
- Ensure optimal utilisation of machinery, equipment, and available resources to maximise throughput. Cost Control & Budget Management
- Manage production costs in accordance with approved operational budgets.
- Monitor labour costs, overtime usage, and productivity ratios to ensure cost-effective operations.
- Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives without compromising safety, quality, or service delivery.
- Track material losses, waste, and inefficiencies and implement corrective actions. Labour Optimisation & Workforce Management
- Plan and optimise workforce deployment according to production volumes and operational requirements.
- Manage shift structures and staffing levels to maintain productivity while controlling labour costs.
- Monitor workforce productivity and ensure efficient utilisation of labour across production areas.
- Work closely with HR and labour providers to manage staffing requirements, attendance, and performance.
KPI & Performance Management
- Ensure operational performance meets agreed
Key Performance Indicators, including:
- Production throughput
- Labour productivity and cost per ton
- Equipment uptime and downtime
- Quality and recovery rates
- Budget adherence
- Analyse production and cost data and implement corrective measures where performance targets are not achieved.
- Prepare regular operational performance reports for management.
Health, Safety & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with all occupational health, safety, and environmental standards.
- Promote a strong culture of safety and responsible operational practices.
- Ensure all staff adhere to established operational and safety procedures.
- Participate in incident investigations and implement preventative measures.
Continuous Improvement
- Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, productivity, and cost management.
- Implement process improvements and best practices to enhance plant performance.
- Support initiatives aimed at improving sustainability and resource recovery.
Minimum Requirements Education
- Diploma or Degree in Operations Management, Production Management, Industrial Engineering, or a related field. Experience
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in a production or plant management role.
- Experience within recycling, waste management, manufacturing, or materials processing environments will be advantageous.
- Demonstrated experience in production planning, cost control, and KPI-driven operational management.
Key Competencies
- Operational leadership and people management
- Strong planning and organisational skills
- Cost and productivity focus
- Analytical and problem-solving ability
- Results-driven with strong KPI discipline
- Effective communication and decision-making
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Tons processed per shift/day
- Labour productivity per hour
- Labour cost per ton
- Equipment uptime and downtime
- Quality and contamination rates
- Budget adherence
- Health & safety compliance
We are committed to locating the ideal job for you, so we kindly advise against paying for this service. There are no costs associated with securing employment with us.
Desired Skills:
- Leadership
- Result Driven
- Communication
