Job Description

Operations Manager | 12-Month Contract
Location: Elsies River Industrial, Cape Town
Focus: Operational Stabilization, Efficiency, and GMP Excellence
Role Overview
Our client, a private-label personal care manufacturing company is seeking a high-calibre, hands-on Operations Manager for a 12-month fixed-term contract. This is a critical hands on role centred on stabilizing day-to-day production and ensuring long-term operational reliability.
With full authority over the operations vertical, you will be responsible for hitting production targets, enhancing equipment uptime, and driving workforce efficiency while upholding rigorous GMP standards.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Excellence

• End-to-End Oversight: Direct leadership of Inbound Stores (Raw Materials & Packaging), Manufacturing/Blending, Filling & Packing, and Maintenance/Engineering.
• Production Flow: Guarantee a seamless production cycle, ensuring all output meets efficiency benchmarks and strict SOP compliance.
• KPI Management: Own and report on critical metrics, including throughput targets, production efficiencies, and stock accuracy.
• Asset Reliability: Implement and oversee robust preventive maintenance programs to minimize downtime.
• Continuous Improvement: Proactively identify bottlenecks and lead collaborative problem-solving with Team Leaders, Quality, and Maintenance.

Compliance & Strategic Collaboration

• Quality Alignment: Work in close partnership with the Technical/Quality Manager to ensure 100% compliance with GMP and ISO 22716 standards.
• Supply Chain Integration: Liaise with the Supply Chain and Finished Goods teams to optimize production scheduling and product handovers.
• Safety & Hygiene: Champion a culture of safety, ensuring factory cleanliness and hygiene standards are world-class.

Leadership & Reporting

• Team Development: Lead and mentor Team Leaders, optimizing labor deployment (including temporary staff) to meet fluctuating demands.
• Communication: Maintain high morale through clear, transparent communication across all shifts.
• Direct Reporting: Provide concise operational updates to the MD, escalating strategic or regulatory risks as necessary.

Experience & Attributes

• FMCG Expertise: A proven track record in personal care or cosmetics manufacturing.
• Technical Depth: Strong background in bulk blending, flexible filling/packing lines, and asset maintenance.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of GMP and ISO 22716.
• Interim Mentality: The ability to remain calm under pressure and stabilize operations quickly in a turnaround context.
• Soft Skills: High operational credibility with the ability to influence cross-functionally.

Preferred: Experience in contract manufacturing or private-label environments.

Skills Required