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.
