Production Manager

Recruiter

Merand Corbett & Associates

Job Ref

CPT002284/CW

Date posted

Friday, June 12, 2026

Location

Airport Industria, South Africa

SUMMARY

Our client is looking for an experienced

Production Manager to lead manufacturing operations in a fast-paced FMCG food and beverage environment at the airport facility. The role involves driving production strategy, managing shift performance, and ensuring safe, efficient, high-quality output aligned to business targets. The successful candidate will also lead teams, improve operational performance, and drive continuous improvement while maintaining strict food safety and quality standards.

POSITION INFO

Qualification details & Experience Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Engineering, Manufacturing, Business or a related field (preferred) Alternatively, a combination of relevant experience and certifications in manufacturing or production management. Minimum 7 years' FMCG food or beverage manufacturing experience At least 3 years in a Production Manager or Senior Production Leadership role Experience managing multiple production lines and shift-based operations High-care food, chilled food, beverage, or juice manufacturing experience highly advantageous Proven knowledge and experience with equipment, process and product design and commissioning -in line with requirement to maintain quality, throughput and effectiveness Proven capacity to convert requirements to an achievable output and effective communicator of progress to all business stakeholders Successful project delivery through effective reporting team leadership Experience with food safety standards (HACCP, GMP, ISO regulations) and quality assurance protocols. Skills & Competencies Strong FMCG manufacturing and production management expertise Proven leadership and people development capability Excellent planning, organisational, and decision-making skills Strong understanding of OEE, productivity, waste reduction, and cost management Sound knowledge of food safety, GMP, HACCP, and quality systems Strong analytical and problem-solving skills Continuous improvement mindset with Lean manufacturing experience Confidence and fortitude to deal with problems and ultimately identify, implement and monitor sustainable solutions Key Responsibilities Safety, Health, Environment & Food safety & Quality-champion a zero harm culture. Ensure compliance with all food safety, quality, GMP, HACCP, FSSC/ISO, and health & safety requirements. Production Strategy, Planning & Execution, translate factory objectives into and executable production strategy and clear targets for shift managers Deliver production targets relating to safety, quality, service, cost, productivity, and customer requirements. Drive operational performance through OEE improvement, waste reduction, yield optimisation, labour productivity, and cost control. Asset Care -collaborate with maintenance, define and agree maintenance windows for PPM and shut down plans Manage and develop Shift Managers and production teams across all shifts Partner closely with Planning, Quality, Engineering, Warehouse, HR, and Commercial teams to optimise factory performance. Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Kaizen, 5S, SMED, and structured problem-solving methodologies. Support new product introductions, process improvements, and capital projects. Drive a strong culture of accountability, engagement, safety, and operational discipline. Shortlisted applicants will be required to undergo relevant psychometric assessments and interview screening. *ONLY SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED*