Production Manager

Production Manager

Reporting to: Contract Manager
Seniority Level: Mid-Career (4 - 6 yrs exp)
Type: Temp

Position Overview

The Production Manager will be responsible for the planning, coordination, and control of all manufacturing processes to ensure that products are produced efficiently, cost-effectively, and at the required quality standards. This role requires strong leadership, technical expertise, and the ability to manage both human and material resources across complex production systems (jobbing, mass, process, and batch production).

Key Responsibilities

• Production Planning & Control
  • Develop, manage, and oversee production schedules to meet output and delivery targets.
  • Ensure production processes remain cost-effective while maintaining high quality.
  • Monitor production performance and adjust schedules as needed.
  • Draft project plans, timelines, and financial projections for production operations.
  • Submit weekly production reports covering breakdowns, staff attendance, overtime, and cost impacts.
  • Conduct quarterly staff evaluations and performance reviews.
• Resource & Equipment Management
  • Determine required human and material resources for production activities.
  • Manage raw material stock levels, order placements, and supplier follow-ups.
  • Ensure availability of finished products for dispatch in line with delivery schedules.
  • Oversee selection, maintenance, and performance of machinery and equipment.
  • Collaborate with maintenance teams to resolve breakdowns and identify weak points.
• Quality Assurance & Compliance
  • Monitor product quality standards and implement quality control programmes.
  • Liaise with the Process Engineer on quality assurance and reporting.
  • Ensure compliance with health, safety, and food safety guidelines (FSA).
  • Implement company policies and procedures within the production environment.
• Leadership & Team Management
  • Supervise, motivate, and discipline production staff as required.
  • Ensure teams are working at full capacity and efficiency.
  • Identify training needs and implement staff development initiatives.
  • Maintain strong communication between departments, suppliers, and management.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Work closely with marketing, sales, and finance to align production with business objectives.
  • Support product design and procurement functions.
  • Contribute to company-wide policy implementation and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Additional Duties
  • Respond to breakdowns and manage downtime effectively.
  • Attend to lawful and reasonable work-related instructions issued by authorized personnel.

Personal Requirements

• Strong understanding of company operations, legal compliance, and financial reporting.
• Knowledge of business principles and operational management practices.
• Solid technical knowledge of equipment and production machinery.
• Physically fit, with good eyesight, coordination, and overall health.
• Excellent planning, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication skills (oral and written).
• Computer literacy (MS Office and production management software).
• Proven leadership and people management abilities.
• Safety-conscious and detail-oriented.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team.
• Valid South African driver’s license and reliable transport (for after-hours emergencies).