Production Manager

Production Manager

Company: AVI Limited – National Brands Limited
Location: Pinetown, KwaZulu-Natal
Employment Type: Permanent
Job Posted: 07 February 2025
Closing Date: 21 February 2025

About AVI & National Brands Limited

AVI Ltd. is home to leading household brands across various categories, including hot beverages, biscuits, snacks, frozen foods, personal care, cosmetics, shoes, accessories, and fashion apparel.

National Brands Limited operates five world-class manufacturing sites across Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, and Westmead. The Westmead Biscuit Factory produces some of South Africa’s most beloved tea, coffee, biscuits, and snacks.

Job Overview

We’re looking for a Production Manager to join our team at the Westmead Biscuit Factory. The ideal candidate will be a technical expert with strong leadership skills to manage production efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.

Reporting to: Manufacturing Manager

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Staff Development:

• Empower and develop staff through goal setting and performance management.
• Ensure the right talent is recruited and developed.

Production Efficiency & Quality Control:

• Ensure high efficiency, excellent quality, and minimal waste.
• Maintain operating specifications and ensure their correct implementation.
• Analyze and resolve production issues to minimize risks.

Cost Management & Optimization:

• Manage labour costs effectively using MANMAPS principles.
• Implement strategies to improve cost-effectiveness and operational budgets.

Compliance & Safety Standards:

• Ensure adherence to SHEQ, QMS, food safety, and environmental standards.
• Drive compliance with AIB, GMPs, and FSSC systems.

Minimum Requirements

Experience:

• Minimum 5 years in a production leadership role within FMCG.
• Experience overseeing baking plant(s) in a high-speed manufacturing environment.

Qualifications:

• BTech / Degree in Food Technology (Essential).

Technical Skills & Competencies:

• Strong baking process knowledge (ingredients, fats, chocolate, jam manufacturing).
• Hands-on experience in operating baking equipment is a plus.
• Advanced Excel & statistical analysis skills.
• Strong data analysis & reporting abilities.
• Process flow understanding & continuous improvement mindset.
• SAP Manufacturing & HR experience (Advantageous).
• Knowledge of WCM, TPM, Lean Manufacturing, and Management Information Systems (Wonderware, Shopware, SCADA).

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a high-performing, world-class FMCG manufacturing team.
• Lead and implement cutting-edge food production strategies.
• Drive continuous improvement in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Ready to take on this challenge? Apply now!

apply here