Karabo Mnguni

Results-driven Production Leader: driving process improvements, ensuring production & quality targets, and fostering a safe work environment. Results-driven Production professional with 10 years of experience in FMCG, skilled in Root Cause Analysis and Fishbone analysis to resolve complex manufacturing deviations. Proven track record of optimizing process cycle times, eliminating inefficiencies, and driving continuous improvement initiatives.

HACCP Team member ensuring rigorous Quality standards, conducting verification checks, and implementing corrective actions to uphold Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). I've developed exceptional team leadership skills, fostering collaborative environments that drive results. My achievements have been recognized with the SDO RISE Awards (2018) and General Manager's Award (2021), highlighting my dedication to interpersonal excellence and operational success.

I currently lead a team of 10 operators and 20 packers at Entyce coffee creamer. I pride myself in consistently delivering high-quality results and I'm eager to leverage my skills in a challenging role that embodies world-class manufacturing principles, driving continuous improvement and revenue growth while exceeding internal and external customer expectations.

Process Engineer at Sime Darby Oils (SD Guthrie) (2016-01 – 2021-10)

• Develop and Review Procedures: Create and review production Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) ensuring compliance with Quality, Safety, and legislative requirements (e.g., Foodstuffs, Cosmetics, and Disinfectants Act).
• Hazard Management: Identify, eliminate, and report hazards in accordance with OHS Act and organizational standards.
• Performance Monitoring: Track and record plant performance variables, analyze data, and implement improvements.
• Blend Accuracy: Ensure blend accuracy, correct deviations, and implement process improvements (e.g., in-process specification tracker for ingredients).
• Process Parameter Management: Specify, maintain, and review process parameters to meet product characteristics and customer COA requirements using SCADA systems.
• Problem-Solving: Apply Energy Balance calculations and other tools to resolve process issues (e.g., product dispatch temperature control).
• Troubleshooting: Identify and resolve process issues, root cause analysis, and implement corrective action.
• Customer Service: Provide regular updates to internal and external customers (e.g., Siqalo) on production status and issues.
• Customer-Centric Solutions: Managed process trials, made recommendations, and implemented changes to meet customer specs and mitigate product risk.
• Process Improvement: Develop and implement initiatives to improve plant performance, quality, and efficiency (e.g., increasing blend accuracy from 75% to 96%).

Production Supervisor at Sime Darby Oils (SD Guthrie) (2021-11 – 2025-02)

Promoted to Production Supervisor Role in November 2021

• Plan resources and priorities to meet production targets, ensuring cost savings and efficient operations.
• Drive accountability, conduct job training, and coaching; manage workforce using ERS BIOMETRICS.
• Improve production troubleshooting, address inefficiencies, and promote continuous improvement.
• Ensure efficient plant shutdown, startup, and changeover processes.
• Monitor safety, health, and environmental compliance, and manage quality control.
• Manage recipes, troubleshoot process problems, and report performance.
• Implement 5S, report deviations, and address non-conformances.
• Drive employee engagement, recognition, and performance review using KPIs.

Team Leader at National Brands Limited (AVI) (2025-03 – Present)

• Production Planning: Plan and prioritize packing activities to meet production targets and deadlines.
• Team Management: Lead and supervise a team of packers, ensuring they are trained, motivated, and equipped to perform their tasks efficiently.
• Quality Control: Monitor and maintain quality standards, identifying and addressing any deviations or issues.
• Line Efficiency: Optimize packing line performance, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity.
• Material Management: Ensure timely receipt, storage, and supply of packaging materials.
• Safety and Hygiene: Enforce safety and hygiene protocols, maintaining a clean and safe working environment.
• Performance Monitoring: Track and report production metrics, identifying areas for improvement.
• Continuous Improvement: Implement changes and improvements to increase efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance quality.
• Communication: Coordinate with other departments, such as production planning, quality assurance, and maintenance.
• Training and Development: Identify training needs and develop plans to upskill team members.

Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Chemical Engineering – University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg (WITS) (2011 – 2015)

Operations Management – University of Capetown (UCT)

National Senior Certificate – H.B Nyathi Secondary School (2010)