Operations Manager

Denver, Johannesburg, South Africa Posted on 01/04/2026

A prominent manufacturing specialist in the flexible packaging sector is seeking an operationally focused Factory Manager to lead its production facility in Denver, Johannesburg. This role is designed for a high-energy, "hands-on" leader who prioritises shop floor efficiency, process optimisation, and technical excellence. The successful candidate will transition between high level operational strategy and direct involvement with extrusion lines, ensuring that production targets are met without compromising on quality or safety. This is a critical appointment for a professional who thrives in a demanding, technical manufacturing environment.

Operational Strategy: Drive the daily manufacturing schedule, ensuring optimal machine uptime and efficient resource allocation across all extrusion departments.

Technical Oversight: Lead the technical response to production bottlenecks, leveraging deep knowledge of extrusion mechanics to maintain continuous output.

Process Improvement: Identify and eliminate inefficiencies in the production of flexible packaging, focusing on waste reduction and cycle time optimisation.

Workflow Coordination: Streamline the transition from raw material intake through to extrusion, conversion, and final dispatch.

Performance Management: Set and monitor clear KPIs for the production team, fostering a culture of precision and high output.

Facility Maintenance: Oversee the mechanical health of the plant, coordinating with maintenance teams to ensure all extrusion equipment operates at peak performance.

Safety & Compliance: Take full ownership of factory wide health and safety protocols, ensuring rigorous adherence to OHAS and industry specific regulations.

Extensive experience in a production leadership or operations management role within the plastics industry.

Technical Mastery: Significant, practical experience with Plastic Extrusion technology (essential).

Sector Expertise: Deep understanding of the Flexible Packaging market and manufacturing requirements.

Hands on Approach: A management style that prioritises being active on the factory floor rather than behind a desk.

Strong mechanical aptitude with a proven ability to troubleshoot complex production issues.

Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to manage a diverse, large scale workforce.

Engineering Background: A degree or diploma in Mechanical, Industrial, or Polymer Engineering is highly advantageous.

Proven track record in implementing Lean Manufacturing, 5S, or similar operational frameworks.

ERP/MRP Systems (e.g., Syspro, SAP, or similar)

Advanced Microsoft Excel for production reporting

General proficiency in Google Workspace or MS Office

• A senior, high impact role with the autonomy to shape the operational future of the facility.
• Opportunity to lead a well established plant in a key industrial hub.