Production Manager

Company:

RCL Foods

Functions:

Operations/Manufacturing

Job Type Classification:

Permanent

Location - Town / City:

Pretoria

Job Description:

RCL FOODS is a deeply rooted South African food manufacturer that produces some of the country’s most-loved brands: Yum Yum peanut butter, Nola mayonnaise, Ouma rusks, and Sellati sugar, just to name a few. At the heart of our culture and strategy is our Purpose – WE GROW WHAT MATTERS – which encapsulates our belief in collectively doing that little more to create a positive impact that matters. Visit our website at: www.rclfoods.com Are you an experienced manufacturing leader with a passion for operational excellence? We are seeking a dynamic Production Manager for our Pretoria site, to lead production operations, drive efficiency, manage costs, and develop high-performing teams within a fast-paced FMCG manufacturing environment. Purpose of the Role To manage multiple production and packing lines, ensuring safe, efficient, and cost-effective manufacturing while meeting production, quality, food safety, and compliance standards. The successful candidate will lead operational excellence initiatives, optimize resources, and drive a high-performance culture across the department.

Minimum Requirements:

• Diploma or Degree in Production Management, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Electrical Engineering.
• Relevant manufacturing or leadership qualification/certification advantageous.
• Wheat or Maize Milling qualification and practical experience will be advantageous.
• Previous experience in bread production and baking is preferred.
• 6-7 years' experience in an FMCG manufacturing environment, including at least 5 years in a management role.
• Strong knowledge of production management, SHEQ systems, labour legislation, and manufacturing best practices.
• Proven experience managing large teams, budgets, and complex manufacturing operations.
• Strong computer literacy and systems orientation.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Lead daily production, processing, and packing operations to consistently achieve production targets, quality standards, and customer requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to optimize processes, reduce waste, improve productivity, and increase equipment reliability.
• Manage departmental budgets, monitor expenditure, and implement cost-control measures to improve profitability.
• Align production plans with business objectives and ensure optimal use of labour, equipment, and materials.
• Coordinate with Planning, Engineering, SHEQ, Procurement, and other stakeholders to ensure seamless operations.
• Monitor production performance and KPIs, analyze trends, and implement corrective actions when required.
• Lead, coach, and develop production teams through performance management, succession planning, and employee development initiatives.