Rochelle Raath

Results-driven Operations, Warehouse Manager and Production Manager with extensive experience leading large teams of up to 210 staff across warehousing, food safety, food manufacturing, logistics, production, cleaning operations, and HR administration. Known for optimizing processes, boosting operational efficiency, and maintaining strict health, safety, and quality compliance. Highly adaptable and proactive, consistently going beyond defined responsibilities to enhance team performance and streamline operations.

Skilled in strategic planning, staff development, and cross-functional collaboration. Currently pursuing a bachelor's in business administration: Supply Chain and Logistics to further strengthen expertise in end-to-end supply chain management.

Production Manager for Vegan or Plant and Bakery at BCW Group (2025-09 – Present)

Experienced Production and Operations Manager with a strong background in food manufacturing, production planning, production scheduling, food safety compliance, quality management systems, and team leadership. Proven ability to manage end-to-end production operations, achieve production targets, maintain HACCP and GMP standards, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and lead high-performing teams in fast-paced manufacturing environments. Skilled in operational planning, performance management, quality assurance, health and safety compliance, SOP development, and cross-functional collaboration to deliver operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

• Managed daily production planning and scheduling to ensure production targets, customer orders, and delivery deadlines were consistently achieved.
• Coordinated production activities to maximize operational efficiency while maintaining product quality standards.
• Ensured adequate availability of raw materials, consumables, packaging, and operational resources to meet production requirements.
• Oversaw production reporting, performance monitoring, and KPI tracking to support operational decision-making and continuous improvement.
• Led and supervised production teams, allocating workloads and resources to maximize productivity and operational efficiency.
• Managed employee performance through coaching, training, mentoring, and development initiatives.
• Conducted performance reviews and managed disciplinary processes in accordance with company policies and procedures.
• Fostered a positive working environment focused on teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Maintained compliance with Food Safety and Quality Management Systems, ensuring adherence to hygiene, sanitation, allergen control, product handling, and labelling requirements.
• Ensured compliance with HACCP, GMP, CCPs, SOPs, and operational controls to maintain food safety and product quality standards.
• Conducted routine quality inspections, investigated non-conformances, and implemented corrective and preventive actions.
• Supported internal and external audits by ensuring documentation, records, and operational processes met required standards.
• Maintained Health and Safety compliance through risk assessments, workplace inspections, and enforcement of safe working practices.
• Promoted a strong safety culture and ensured compliance with company and regulatory requirements.
• Investigated incidents and implemented corrective actions to minimize risks and prevent recurrence.
• Identified and implemented opportunities to improve production efficiency, product quality, workflow processes, and operational performance.
• Supported Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste and improve productivity.
• Developed, reviewed, and updated Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency, compliance, and operational effectiveness.
• Managed daily and periodic cleaning schedules for production facilities, ensuring completion of records and compliance with hygiene standards.
• Oversaw waste control processes and housekeeping standards to maintain a safe and efficient production environment.
• Reported maintenance issues and coordinated with relevant departments to minimize downtime and support operational continuity.
• Coordinated communication and workflow between Production, Quality Assurance, Warehouse, Procurement, and Logistics departments.
• Worked closely with operational stakeholders to ensure efficient production flow, stock availability, and on-time customer deliveries.
• Supported business objectives through effective planning, communication, and problem-solving across multiple functions.

OPERATIONS MANAGER at SHOPRITE WAREHOUSE (2025-03 – 2025-08)

Directed daily operations across four shifts with 212 staff in cleaning, production, and stocktaking. Established standardised cleaning schedules, streamlined workflow planning, and strengthened compliance with hygiene, health, and safety standards.

• Developed and implemented daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning schedules for 300 staff.
• Supervised 200 cleaning staff and 12 cleaning supervisors, ensuring duties were clearly allocated.
• Directed daily and 24/7 cleaning operations across all shifts, including shutdowns and after incidents.
• Conducted hygiene and safety inspections, audits, and compliance checks.
• Trained staff on cleaning procedures, safe chemical handling, and dispenser systems.
• Monitored inventory of cleaning supplies, ensuring safe and compliant storage.
• Oversaw production planning, including packing, labelling, and manpower allocation.
• Supervised production staff performance, efficiency, and training.
• Enforced quality control standards, resolving product defects and maintaining documentation.
• Managed HR functions: recruitment, onboarding, toolbox talks, time & attendance, disciplinary processes, and audit preparation.
• Designed Shoprite's first master cleaning plan, significantly improving workflow efficiency.
• Strengthened compliance and staff accountability through structured audits and inspections.
• Improved staff performance and safety awareness through targeted training programs.

SENIOR WAREHOUSE MANAGER (CONTRACT) at RIVULIS SOUTH AFRICA (2024-10 – 2025-03)

Oversaw relocation from a smaller facility to a large international-standard warehouse. Implemented SAP ERP systems, optimised layouts for fast- and slow-moving goods, and ensured operational compliance across multiple regions.

• Implemented SAP ERP for production, invoicing, purchasing, and stock control.
• Directed stocktakes across Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Nelspruit.
• Supervised warehouse staff, ensuring adherence to safety and evacuation protocol.
• Planned warehouse layout for efficiency of slow- and fast-moving stock.
• Coordinated offloading of containers, courier services, and supplier returns.
• Oversaw production schedules and order fulfilment to meet strict timelines.
• Managed forklifts, reach trucks, inspections, and compliance procedures.
• Ensured housekeeping, waste management, and workplace safety were maintained.
• Successfully supported large-scale warehouse relocation and layout optimisation.
• Enhanced efficiency and accuracy of stock and order processing through ERP adoption.
• Strengthened compliance through safety enforcement and structured evacuation procedures.

Bachelor of Business Administration in Supply Chain & Logistics

Diploma in Ministries – Timothy Ministries (2010 – 2011)

B.Compt – UNISA (2012 – 2015)

National Senior Certificate – Jim Fouche Secondary (2009 – 2009)