What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Production Manager - FMCG position at EnableSA (Pty) Ltd?
We are seeking an experienced and driven Senior Production Manager to lead operations at a fast-paced FMCG facility in Coega, Port Elizabeth. This role is critical in ensuring efficient, high-quality production while maintaining strict food safety and compliance standards. The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership, operational excellence, and a passion for continuous improvement to drive performance, optimize processes, and support a high-performing production team.
Responsibilities:
- Oversee daily production operations to ensure targets related to volume, quality, cost, and delivery are achieved.
- Develop and implement production plans aligned with demand forecasts and business objectives.
- Monitor production KPIs and implement corrective actions where necessary.
- Ensure full compliance with South African food safety regulations and standards (e.g., HACCP, FSSC 22000, ISO standards).
- Maintain high standards of hygiene, sanitation, and food safety across all production processes.
- Lead internal and external audits and ensure readiness at all times
- Lead, mentor, and develop production teams, including supervisors and line managers.
- Drive a high-performance culture with a focus on accountability, engagement, and continuous improvement.
- Manage workforce planning, training, and performance management.
- Identify opportunities to improve productivity, reduce waste, and optimize processes.
- Implement Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies.
- Drive cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality or safety.
- Work closely with Quality Assurance teams to ensure product specifications are consistently met.
- Address non-conformances and implement root cause analysis and corrective actions.
Requirements
- Grade 12
- Diploma/Degree in Food Science, Production Management, or related field
- Postgraduate qualification (MBA or equivalent) advantageous.
- Minimum 8–10 years’ experience in food manufacturing, with at least 5 years in a senior production management role.
- Proven experience in managing production teams in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong understanding of food safety systems (HACCP, ISO, GMP).
- Knowledge of South African regulatory requirements in food production.
- Experience with ERP systems and production planning tools
- Sound knowledge of production planning and process optimization.
- Financial acumen and budget management experience.
- Candidate must reside in the Port Elizabeth / Uitenhage area