Senior Engineering Leader, FMCG Operations

Leadership Engineer – FMCG (Bloemfontein, South Africa)

Company: A leading recruitment agency representing a top‑tier FMCG manufacturer

Location: Bloemfontein, South Africa (on‑site)

Employment Type: Full‑time, permanent

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About the Role

We are partnering with a high‑growth FMCG organization to secure a dynamic Engineering Leader who will drive operational excellence across its manufacturing sites. Reporting to the Plant Manager (or Head of Engineering), you will be responsible for overseeing day‑to‑day engineering operations, managing engineering change initiatives, and delivering measurable productivity improvements in a fast‑paced, large‑scale environment.

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Key Responsibilities

Area	What You’ll Do
Operational Management	• Lead the engineering team (mechanical, electrical, electromechanical) to ensure reliable, safe, and efficient plant operation. • Oversee preventive and corrective maintenance programs, ensuring compliance with OHS and quality standards. • Manage budgets, KPIs, and resource allocation to meet production targets.
Engineering Change Management	• Own the end‑to‑end change‑control process (CAPA, design modifications, equipment upgrades). • Coordinate cross‑functional teams (R&D, Production, Quality, Finance) to evaluate, approve, and implement changes. • Track change impact on cost, downtime, and product quality.
Productivity & Continuous Improvement	• Identify bottlenecks and lead Kaizen/Lean initiatives to boost OEE, reduce waste, and lower operating costs. • Deploy data‑driven tools (MES, SAP PM, reliability analytics) to monitor performance. • Mentor engineers and technicians in problem‑solving methodologies (5‑Why, FMEA, Root‑Cause Analysis).
Strategic Leadership	• Contribute to long‑term plant strategy, capital investment planning, and technology road‑maps. • Foster a culture of safety, innovation, and high performance. • Represent engineering in senior‑leadership forums and external stakeholder meetings.

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Required Qualifications & Experience

Requirement	Details
Education	• BTech or BSc in Mechanical, Electrical, or Electromechanical Engineering (or equivalent).
Professional Experience	• Minimum 8 years of hands‑on technical experience in a large FMCG engineering environment (multi‑site, high‑volume production). • Proven track record in operational management, engineering change control, and productivity improvement.
Leadership Skills	• Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary engineering teams. • Strong communication, stakeholder‑management, and decision‑making capabilities.
Preferred	• Post‑graduate qualification in Business, Leadership, or a related field (e.g., MBA, PGDip in Management). • Certifications in Lean Six Sigma, PMP, or Reliability Engineering.
Technical Proficiency	• Familiarity with SAP PM/MM, MES, PLC/HMI systems, and modern automation tools. • Knowledge of OHS, ISO 9001/14001, and industry‑specific compliance standards.
Personal Attributes	• Results‑oriented, analytical thinker with a continuous‑improvement mindset. • Ability to thrive in a fast‑changing, high‑pressure environment.

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What We Offer

• Competitive salary package aligned with market benchmarks.
• Performance‑based bonuses and long‑term incentive schemes.
• Comprehensive benefits (medical aid, retirement fund, vehicle allowance).
• Professional development support (training, certifications, tuition assistance).
• Opportunity to influence the strategic direction of a leading FMCG brand.

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Application Process

1. Submit your CV (including a concise cover letter highlighting relevant FMCG experience and leadership achievements).
2. Shortlisting: Selected candidates will receive a detailed job specification and be invited for an initial interview.
3. Assessment: Candidates may be asked to complete a technical case study or leadership exercise.
4. Final Interview: With senior plant leadership and HR.

All applications will be treated confidentially.

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How to Apply

Please forward your updated CV and cover letter to [recruiter.email@agency.com] with the subject line “Leadership Engineer – Bloemfontein Application – [Your Name]”.

For any queries, contact [Recruiter Name] at +27 XX XXX XXXX or via email.

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Our client is an equal‑opportunity employer and values diversity. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of gender, race, disability, or background.