Operational Production Manager

Overview

Job Position: Operational Production Manager

Ref: 5162

Location: Bedford (Eastern Cape)

Salary: R to R per month CTC commensurate with experience and qualifications + performance based incentives

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Looking for a hands-on Operational Production Manager to take full ownership of the factory, production processes, quality standards and workshop team

Qualifications / Requirements

• 5+ years' experience in furniture manufacturing OR woodworking/joinery OR factory production management in a craft-based environment
• Proven experience managing artisans or skilled production teams and quality-driven manufacturing processes
• Strong understanding of wood types, joinery, finishing techniques and machinery used in furniture production

Desirable Experience

• Experience working with independent contractors
• Experience with production-based remuneration models
• Exposure to small-to-medium manufacturing businesses
• Experience with custom or semi-bespoke furniture
• Sales or client-facing experience in a manufacturing or craft environment

Qualifications (Preferred but not Essential)

• Trade qualification in woodworking, cabinet making, or joinery
• OR production/operations management qualification
• OR demonstrable practical experience in lieu of formal qualification

Key Performance Areas

• Factory and production management: Manage day-to-day operations of the furniture factory; plan and schedule production based on confirmed orders; allocate work to artisans and track progress against deadlines
• Quality control and brand standards
• Contractor and staff leadership
• Job card and order management
• Client and sales support
• Stock, materials and machinery oversight: Monitor wood usage, wastage, and offcuts; ensure materials are available for uninterrupted production; oversee machinery maintenance and report capital needs