Johannesburg: Plant Manager/Factory Ops Manager

Job Overview A well-established FMCG food manufacturing business based in Alberton is looking for a strong, hands-on Plant Manager to take full responsibility for a large, high-volume production facility. This role requires a practical, experienced manufacturing leader who can manage production, people, technical teams, quality, compliance, suppliers, downtime, wastage and overall factory performance. This is not a desk-based role. The successful candidate must be visible on the factory floor, able to lead from the front, solve operational problems quickly and ensure that the plant runs smoothly, efficiently and consistently. The facility operates in a fast-paced, high-pressure manufacturing environment, and the ideal candidate must be comfortable working in a 24-hour plant. Key Responsibilities Manage the full daily operation of a high-volume food manufacturing plant Oversee production planning, output, downtime, wastage and efficiency Lead and manage a large workforce of approximately 150 employees indirectly Manage production, technical, maintenance, quality and operational teams Ensure production targets, quality standards and delivery timelines are met Drive improved factory discipline, productivity and operational control Monitor production records, documentation and reporting Ensure food safety, hygiene, quality and compliance standards are maintained Support audit readiness and ensure procedures are followed Oversee equipment reliability, maintenance support and plant uptime Work closely with senior management on operational planning and execution Manage suppliers, service providers, pricing discussions and service levels Identify cost-saving opportunities and process improvements Reduce downtime, wastage and recurring operational issues Ensure the plant operates safely, professionally and efficiently Minimum Requirements Proven senior operations or plant management experience in FMCG manufacturing Strong food manufacturing experience is essential Snack manufacturing, food production or similar experience will be highly advantageous Experience managing a large production facility Experience managing a large workforce Strong production planning and factory control experience Good understanding of food safety, hygiene, quality systems and audits Strong technical understanding of plant, equipment, downtime and maintenance requirements Supplier management and cost-control experience Strong people management and leadership skills Ability to work in a 24-hour manufacturing environment Willing to be hands-on and visible on the factory floor Must be comfortable with long operational hours and alternate weekends when required Required Skills Strong plant management ability Production planning and manufacturing control Food safety and quality compliance People leadership Problem-solving under pressure Downtime and wastage reduction Supplier and cost management Technical and maintenance oversight Planning and organisational skills Clear communication Strong accountability Commercial awareness Hands-on leadership style Personal Attributes Mature and resilient Practical and solution-driven Calm under pressure Firm but fair with staff Highly accountable Strong on follow-through Able to take ownership Comfortable in a demanding manufacturing environment Able to motivate teams and drive performance Strong enough to lead without needing to be micromanaged Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate is a strong factory operator with solid FMCG food manufacturing experience. This person must be able to walk the floor, understand the pressure, identify the problem and get the team moving. The role requires someone who can manage people, production, compliance, downtime, wastage and operational performance in a large, high-volume food manufacturing environment. Please Note Only candidates with strong FMCG food manufacturing experience will be considered. Experience in snack manufacturing, grain-based products or similar high-volume food production environments will be highly advantageous.