Operations Manager - Brits

Job category: Manufacturing, Building and Manual Work

Location: Brits

Contract: Permanent

Remuneration: Market Related

EE position: Yes

Mpact Plastic Containers (MPC) is a leading manufacturer of high-quality, sustainable plastic packaging solutions in South Africa. As part of the Mpact Group, we are committed to innovation, environmental responsibility, and providing our customers with durable and cost-effective container solutions. We foster a culture of teamwork, safety, and continuous improvement. We value integrity, accountability, and excellence in everything we do. Our employees are at the heart of our success, and we strive to create a dynamic and inclusive work environment where they can grow and thrive. Joining Mpact Plastic Containers Castleview means becoming part of a company that is dedicated to delivering superior products while upholding strong values of sustainability, quality, and customer satisfaction. To ensure the efficient and effective production of injection moulded products on the shift by effectively controlling all production resources utilized in order to achieve the production and quality targets set, while ensuring that SHEQ standards are maintained.

Mpact Plastic Containers (Pty) Ltd, is looking for a dynamic Operations Manager to take full operational ownership of its Brits site. This role is ideal for an individual with strong leadership abilities, hands-on experience in plastic injection moulding, and a solid understanding of production optimisation.

Job Purpose

We are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead and optimize end-to-end site operations at our Brits manufacturing facility. This pivotal role ensures the seamless execution of production targets, process improvements, and cost efficiencies while upholding the highest standards in safety, quality, and people leadership. You will work cross-functionally to drive operational excellence in alignment with our broader business objectives.

Key Performance Areas

1. Operational Strategy & Leadership

Lead plant operations and implement strategies that enhance productivity, reduce waste, and drive lean manufacturing principles.

Champion continuous improvement initiatives using methodologies such as Six Sigma, Kaizen, or 5S.

Align daily operations with overall company goals and KPIs.

2. Production & Process Management

Manage production planning, scheduling, and execution to meet customer delivery timelines and internal quality benchmarks.

Ensure optimal equipment utilization and process efficiency.

Collaborate closely with Planning, Quality, and Engineering teams.

3. Equipment & Asset Reliability

Oversee preventative maintenance schedules for injection moulding and auxiliary equipment.

Work with Engineering to ensure high uptime, reduce downtime, and support OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) improvements.

4. Team & People Management

Lead, coach, and motivate cross-functional teams across production, maintenance, and logistics.

Drive a culture of accountability, performance excellence, and employee engagement.

Ensure ongoing training and development of staff.

Develop and manage operational budgets, including forecasting and cost controls.

Drive cost-saving initiatives, monitor variances, and report on financial performance.

6. SHEQ & Compliance

Ensure strict adherence to Health, Safety, Environmental, and Quality (SHEQ) standards.

Drive a safety-first culture and ensure compliance with ISO standards, legal regulations, and company policies.

7. Supply Chain & Inventory Management

Manage raw material planning, stock levels, and supplier coordination to ensure seamless production flow.

Optimize warehouse and logistics operations in collaboration with the procurement team.

8. Reporting & Operational Analytics

Compile and analyze reports on plant performance, efficiency, waste reduction, and financial outcomes.

Present insights and recommendations to senior leadership.

Why Join Us?

Join a market leader in sustainable plastic packaging with a national footprint

Work in a high-impact role within a fast-paced, agile manufacturing environment

Be part of an innovative, people-centric organization that values growth, diversity, and collaboration

Contribute to the circular economy through reusable and eco-friendly packaging solutions

Education:

BTech / BSc / National Diploma in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Mechanical Engineering or similar

5 years' experience in a senior operations or production management role, preferably in plastics injection mouldingmanufacturing

Strong leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills

Proficient in Lean Manufacturing, ERP systems, and data-driven performance management

Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities

Personal Attributes

• Strong leadership and problem-solving skills
• Results-oriented with a hands-on approach
• High attention to detail and quality focus
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines
• Committed to continuous improvement and operational excellence