Factory Manager

Factory Manager

Sector:
FMCG Manufacturing – Confectionery

Location
: Amalgam Industrial Estate, Johannesburg

About the Client

3L Consulting is recruiting on behalf of a leading international FMCG manufacturer specialising in the production of high-quality confectionery products enjoyed by millions of consumers worldwide. The organisation is recognised for its commitment to quality, innovation, and operational excellence, and operates within a fast-paced, high-volume production environment. With a strong local presence and global standards, the company offers a dynamic, people-centred culture where collaboration, integrity, and continuous improvement are valued and rewarded.

Purpose of the Role

The Factory Manager will take full accountability for managing the day-to-day production operations, ensuring that all manufacturing, quality, and safety objectives are met in line with business goals. This role is responsible for leading and developing factory teams, optimising processes, managing performance, and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and company standards. The successful candidate will drive a culture of efficiency, teamwork, and continuous improvement, ensuring the consistent delivery of products that meet the company's high standards of quality and service.

Key Responsibilities

Production & Operations Management

• Oversee the daily operation of the production facility to ensure output meets required quality and volume targets.
• Ensure adherence to production plans, schedules, and operational budgets.
• Monitor and report on performance metrics including OEE, downtime, and production yields.
• Coordinate maintenance activities to ensure optimal equipment reliability and minimal unplanned downtime.
• Implement process improvements that increase efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.
• Uphold all company policies, procedures, and safety standards in accordance with local legislation and best practice.

People Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and motivate production and support teams to achieve individual and collective performance targets.
• Foster a culture of accountability, respect, and high performance.
• Identify and implement staff training and development initiatives to enhance operational capability.
• Conduct performance evaluations, manage underperformance, and recognise achievements.
• Promote effective communication and teamwork across departments.

Quality, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental legislation, including OHSA and HACCP.
• Maintain high standards of hygiene and product safety across all areas of production.
• Drive a culture of proactive safety awareness and continuous improvement.
• Oversee root cause analyses for quality or safety incidents and ensure effective corrective actions.
• Maintain accurate documentation and ensure audit readiness at all times.

Cost Control & Resource Management

• Manage factory budgets and control operational costs within approved parameters.
• Analyse and manage resource utilisation, material waste, and efficiency metrics.
• Support procurement and supply chain teams in ensuring adequate raw material and packaging availability.
• Drive cost-saving and efficiency initiatives without compromising quality or compliance.

Strategic & Continuous Improvement

• Lead initiatives focused on process optimisation, automation, and lean manufacturing principles.
• Collaborate with senior management to plan and implement factory upgrades and capital projects.
• Contribute to long-term operational strategies to support business growth and innovation.
• Identify opportunities for technology adoption and sustainable operational practices.

Key Competencies & Attributes

• Proven leadership and people management skills with the ability to inspire and influence diverse teams.
• Strong operational and strategic thinking ability.
• Excellent knowledge of production processes and food manufacturing standards.=
• Analytical mindset with a continuous improvement approach.
• Resilient and adaptable with strong decision-making and problem-solving skills.
• High level of integrity and attention to detail.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal abilities.

Experience & Qualifications

• Matric (Grade 12) (essential).
• Bachelor's Degree or Diploma in Engineering, Production Management, or related field (advantageous).
• Minimum 8–10 years' experience in FMCG or confectionery manufacturing, including at least 5 years in a senior factory or production management role.
• Proven success in leading high-volume manufacturing operations.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and maintenance best practices.
• Sound understanding of safety, health, environmental, and quality standards (OHSA, HACCP, ISO).
• Computer literate with proficiency in MS Office and production management systems.

Other Requirements

• Valid driver's licence and own reliable transport (essential).
• Willingness to work outside normal working hours, including call-out duty or remote support when required.

Key Performance Areas (KPA's)

• Achievement of production, quality, and delivery targets.
• Optimisation of productivity and cost efficiency.
• Compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Effective leadership and staff development.
• Implementation of process improvements and waste reduction.
• Achievement of continuous improvement goals and OEE targets.

Benefits

• Competitive Total Cost to Company (TCTC) package aligned with senior manufacturing management level.
• Dynamic and supportive work environment within a high-performance FMCG business.
• Opportunities for career growth and professional development.
• Exposure to advanced production systems, automation, and global best practices.