Our client is looking for a hands-on Production Shift Manager to lead and oversee production operations within a fast-paced FMCG manufacturing environment at the airport facility. The successful candidate will drive shift performance, ensure safe and efficient production, and maintain high standards of quality, productivity, and cost control in line with business objectives.

The role requires a strong factory-floor leader who can motivate teams, solve problems in real time, and support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and output.

Candidate Essentials

Qualification details

Grade 12 (Matric)
Relevant tertiary qualification in Production Management, Operations Management, Food Technology, Industrial Engineering, or similar preferred

Experience

3–5 years' experience in a Shift Manager, Production Supervisor, or similar leadership role within FMCG food or beverage manufacturing
Experience managing production teams in a shift-based environment
Juice, beverage, chilled food, or high-care manufacturing experience highly advantageous

Skills & Competencies

Strong FMCG manufacturing and production management knowledge
Sound understanding of HACCP, GMP, FSSC/ISO, food safety, and quality systems
Proven leadership, coaching, and people management capability
Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
Ability to manage performance in a fast-paced, high-volume manufacturing environment
Strong planning, communication, and organisational skills
Continuous improvement mindset with exposure to Lean, 5S, Kaizen, problem solving methodologies

Key Performance Responsibilities

Lead all production activities during the shift, including blending, pasteurisation, filling, packing, cleaning, and associated processes.
Drive a strong culture of safety, food safety, quality, and operational compliance.
Execute production plans and ensure optimal utilisation of labour, equipment, and materials.
Manage line performance, downtime, changeovers, waste, and productivity to achieve operational targets.
Ensure compliance with HACCP, GMP, FSSC/ISO, hygiene, and high-care manufacturing requirements.
Lead, coach, and develop chargehands, team leaders, operators, and production teams.
Manage attendance, performance, discipline, and employee engagement on shift.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on OEE, waste reduction, quality, and efficiency.
Collaborate closely with Quality, Engineering, Planning, Warehouse, and HR teams.
Ensure accurate reporting, shift handovers, and production documentation.

Key Performance areas

Health & Safety Performance
Food Safety & Quality Compliance
Production Plan Adherence
Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE)
Labour Productivity
Waste, Rework & Yield Management
Downtime Reduction
Order fill (ONIF)
Team Leadership & Employee Engagement
Continuous Improvement Delivery

Personal attributes

Safety and food safety & Quality first
Strong leader with presence on the floor, visible, fair and firm
Results driven, with high levels of ownership and accountability
Good communicator across all levels of the business
Adaptable and calm under pressure, able to manage multiple priorities
Continuous improvement mindset, open to change and innovation
High integrity, ethical and compliant with policies and procedures
Collaborative team player who works well with other functions

Shortlisted applicants will be required to undergo relevant psychometric assessments and interview screening.

*ONLY SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED*