Industrial Engineering Manager - Factory Operations

Our client, a renowned leader in the consumer goods manufacturing sector, is looking for an experienced Industrial Engineering Manager to lead their operational excellence initiatives at their facility in Durban, Kwa Zulu-Natal. This leadership role is crucial for driving continuous improvement, optimizing production processes, and ensuring the highest standards of efficiency and quality. You will manage a team of industrial engineers, providing guidance, mentorship, and strategic direction.

The position involves a hybrid work arrangement, combining essential on-site leadership with the flexibility of remote work. We seek a candidate with a strong background in lean manufacturing, robust project management skills, and a proven ability to foster a culture of innovation and operational excellence. The ideal candidate will have a strategic vision for manufacturing operations and the ability to translate it into actionable plans that deliver measurable results in a key South African economic center.

• Oversee and manage the daily operations and strategic direction of the industrial engineering department.
• Develop and implement comprehensive plans for process optimization, waste reduction, and productivity enhancement across all manufacturing lines.
• Lead and mentor a team of industrial engineers, setting performance goals and fostering professional development.
• Direct the design and implementation of new production layouts, workflows, and equipment installations.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for manufacturing efficiency, throughput, quality, and cost.
• Drive the adoption of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies throughout the plant.
• Collaborate with senior management to align engineering strategies with overall business objectives.
• Manage capital expenditure projects related to facility upgrades and equipment modernization.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback to team members.
• Facilitate root cause analysis for production issues and implement corrective actions.
• Develop and manage the departmental budget effectively.

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering or a related field.
• A Bachelor's degree with extensive relevant experience will be considered.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in industrial engineering, with at least 3-5 years in a management or supervisory role.
• Demonstrated expertise in leading large-scale continuous improvement initiatives (Lean, Six Sigma Black Belt highly preferred).
• Strong understanding of manufacturing operations, production planning, and supply chain principles.
• Proven ability to manage and develop engineering teams.
• Excellent project management skills with experience managing complex, multi-disciplinary projects.
• Proficiency in simulation software, CAD, and data analysis tools.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing departmental budgets.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and influence stakeholders at all levels.

• Executive-level salary and comprehensive bonus structure.
• Premium health insurance coverage including family benefits.
• Generous retirement fund contributions.
• Extensive paid vacation and leave entitlements.
• Significant investment in employee training and career advancement.
• Flexible hybrid work arrangement.
• Opportunity to lead operations in a major industrial hub.
• Collaborative and growth-oriented company culture in Durban.