Position: Production ManagerLocation: Bonnievale, Western CapeSalary: R50,000 to R70,000 basic per month, negotiableAbout the Role A well-established dairy manufacturing business in the Western Cape is looking for an experienced Production Manager to lead their cheese and butter manufacturing operations. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced food production environment and knows how to build strong teams, drive efficiency and embed a food safety culture.This position reports to the Operations Manager.Key Responsibilities Plan and coordinate weekly production schedules and personnel shifts aligned with customer demand and supply chain requirements Report daily, weekly and monthly on production yields, operational efficiency, overtime and downtime Coordinate raw milk and cream intake and ingredient availability Manage planned shutdowns and preventative maintenance programmes with the maintenance team and external contractors Drive continuous improvement across labour, production costs, ingredients, packaging and machinery Ensure full compliance with food safety regulations and dairy industry standards Work closely with the Quality Department on product integrity, critical control points and non-conformances Coordinate across Finance, HR, Quality, Sales, Logistics and Maintenance departments Evaluate, develop and performance-manage production staff Ensure full OHS compliance and promote a safe, professional working environment Available after hours and on weekends as operationally required Minimum Requirements Option A:Grade 12 Formal degree or diploma in Operations Management, Project Management or a relevant dairy qualification Minimum 8 years production management experience Dairy or FMCG experience is advantageous Option B:Grade 12 Minimum 10 years experience in Production Management, People Management or as a Head Cheese Maker Dairy or FMCG experience is advantageous Non-Negotiables Proven production management experience of 8 to 10 years, depending on qualification Strong people management and leadership track record Solid food safety compliance knowledge Willingness to relocate to Bonnievale Available after hours and on weekends as required What is on Offer Negotiable basic salary Old Mutual Superfund pension (3% employer contribution) Annual performance bonus paid in November, pro rata Relocation assistance and first month accommodation covered If you do not receive feedback within 4 weeks of application, please consider your application unsuccessful.