Join this flagship Company which is the market leader in their niche industry and that manufactures industrial products for local and international markets. The Company forms part of a local R2bn Group of Companies whose Holding Company is also a leading manufacturing Company . This modernised 24/7 plant where Lean, 6 Sigma & Continuous Improvement are major thrusts in the manufacturing process consists of, inter alia, smelting (furnaces), refining (with various sized pots), the use of different types of machinery as well as polypropylene. The final products are ingots consisting of different alloys. There is also a laboratory to ensure quality of products and the plant is ISO Accredited with the most stringent application of SHEQ. The direct subordinates are: 3 Production Managers (HODs) and 1 Engineering Manager (for maintenance & projects) who are supported by a multiple number of Foremen. The key objective of the Operations Manager is to manage the entire plant from raw material receipts to production of end product. The Operations Manager will report to the Managing Director and form part of OPCO together with other Execs & Managers, viz: MD, FD, SHEQ, HR, Procurement & Tech/Sales. In addition, the Operations Manager will manage Maintenance & Project Engineering Departments in support of production and ensure the highest standards of Safety & Environment Compliance. The management style of the MD is delivery and bottom line driven with daily goals and key metrics that have to be met. He is open and transparent and expects the candidate to do "what-ifs" and assess the situation on a regular basis which will include advanced planning and proactivity. The key responsibilities and duties are broad based. It will, inter alia, include ensuring that the receipt of raw materials are converted into ingots and ensure delivery onto their trucks happens timeously. The production targets for each of the Sections must be met as well as maintenance & capex targets adhered to (capex varies between R25-35 million pa). Mentoring, coaching & developing the 3 Production Managers who are Heads of their Department are critical in achieving the set goals. In addition, the ability to work with the OPCO Team is paramount in ensuring the overall Company continues their excellent profitability. The candidate must manage the Budget which consists of direct & indirect expenditure: Operations R220m, Maintenance R80-90m and Capex R25-35m. Lean and CI are pivotal in the Companies strategy and must be driven by this candidate (Black Belt Training will be provided if need be). Requirements: B.Sc. qualification is the minimum requirement in one of the following disciplines either Metallurgical, Industrial or Chemical. The candidate must come from an industrial environment and have had experience at Senior Operational Management level. Solid experience in initiating and executing Engineering and Operational Projects in a fully accredited ISO environment. Excellent health, safety and legislation knowledge is paramount. A very strong mechanical background. It would be highly recommended if there was experience in Lean/6 Sigma and continuous improvement. In-depth computer literacy and strong financial competency to have a financial understanding of managing the budget and costs of the plant. A transparent and honest approach, clear verbal and written communication skills, assertive, highly energetic due to the ongoing demands of this role, ability to execute and get the job done coupled with a strong sense of urgency.