Production Manager/ Assistant DC Manager

SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:

A leading manufacturing and distribution company is seeking an experienced Production Manager to lead a high-performing team in a fast-paced, B2B manufacturing and logistics environment. This role is critical to driving operational stability, efficiency, and cultural revitalization in the Cape Town Distribution Centre (DC).

The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills and expertise in Lean Manufacturing principles (5S, Kaizen, Six Sigma).

Qualifications & Experience

• 5+ years of experience in Manufacturing or Logistics
• 3-5 years in a supervisory/managerial role, leading 5+ direct reports
• Background in FMCG, Pharmaceutical, Food & Beverage, Paints, or Chemical industries
• Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing (5S, Kaizen, Six Sigma)
• Experience in ISO9001 compliance and continuous improvement initiatives
• Customer-focused mindset with a track record of delivering operational excellence
• Experience managing a distribution centre will be highly beneficial
• Must be able to work standard office hours (8-5) while overseeing rotating shifts

Key Responsibilities

Production Leadership & Team Management

• Ensure operational efficiency while building a strong workplace culture
• Lead by example, fostering customer-centricity and continuous improvement
• Drive lean manufacturing and process optimization to meet 24-hour SLAs.

Operational Excellence & Compliance

• Implement and uphold ISO9001 and other quality control standards
• Apply ELS methodologies (Six Sigma, DMAIC, Kaizen, 5 Whys)
• Optimize processes to reduce waste, improve OEE, and enhance output
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (logistics, warehousing, QA).

Strategic & Customer-Centric Approach

• Ensure timely production and distribution to meet customer demands
• Proactively identify and resolve bottlenecks to maintain smooth operations
• Work closely with senior leadership to align with business objectives