Production Shift Manager

Recruiter

Merand Corbett & Associates

Job Ref

CPT002283/CW

Date posted

Friday, June 12, 2026

Location

Airport Industria, South Africa

SUMMARY

Our client is looking for a hands-on Production Shift Manager to lead and oversee production operations within a fast-paced FMCG manufacturing environment at the airport facility. The successful candidate will drive shift performance, ensure safe and efficient production, and maintain high standards of quality, productivity, and cost control in line with business objectives.

The role requires a strong factory-floor leader who can motivate teams, solve problems in real time, and support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and output.

POSITION INFO

Candidate Essentials

Qualification details

• Grade 12 (Matric)
• Relevant tertiary qualification in Production Management, Operations Management, Food Technology, Industrial Engineering, or similar preferred

Experience

• 3–5 years' experience in a Shift Manager, Production Supervisor, or similar leadership role within FMCG food or beverage manufacturing
• Experience managing production teams in a shift-based environment
• Juice, beverage, chilled food, or high-care manufacturing experience highly advantageous

Skills & Competencies

• Strong FMCG manufacturing and production management knowledge
• Sound understanding of HACCP, GMP, FSSC/ISO, food safety, and quality systems
• Proven leadership, coaching, and people management capability
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Ability to manage performance in a fast-paced, high-volume manufacturing environment
• Strong planning, communication, and organisational skills
• Continuous improvement mindset with exposure to Lean, 5S, Kaizen, problem solving methodologies

Key Performance Responsibilities

• Lead all production activities during the shift, including blending, pasteurisation, filling, packing, cleaning, and associated processes.
• Drive a strong culture of safety, food safety, quality, and operational compliance.
• Execute production plans and ensure optimal utilisation of labour, equipment, and materials.
• Manage line performance, downtime, changeovers, waste, and productivity to achieve operational targets.
• Ensure compliance with HACCP, GMP, FSSC/ISO, hygiene, and high-care manufacturing requirements.
• Lead, coach, and develop chargehands, team leaders, operators, and production teams.
• Manage attendance, performance, discipline, and employee engagement on shift.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on OEE, waste reduction, quality, and efficiency.
• Collaborate closely with Quality, Engineering, Planning, Warehouse, and HR teams.
• Ensure accurate reporting, shift handovers, and production documentation.

Key Performance areas

• Health & Safety Performance
• Food Safety & Quality Compliance
• Production Plan Adherence
• Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE)
• Labour Productivity
• Waste, Rework & Yield Management
• Downtime Reduction
• Order fill (ONIF)
• Team Leadership & Employee Engagement
• Continuous Improvement Delivery

Personal attributes

• Safety and food safety & Quality first
• Strong leader with presence on the floor, visible, fair and firm
• Results driven, with high levels of ownership and accountability
• Good communicator across all levels of the business
• Adaptable and calm under pressure, able to manage multiple priorities
• Continuous improvement mindset, open to change and innovation
• High integrity, ethical and compliant with policies and procedures
• Collaborative team player who works well with other functions

Shortlisted applicants will be required to undergo relevant psychometric assessments and interview screening.

*ONLY SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED*