Manufacturing and Operations Director

EXECUTIVE OPERATIONS DIRECTOR | PIETERMARITZBURGVexila | Previously known in the market as Pfisterer (Pty) Ltd South AfricaAn opportunity to transform manufacturing performance—and build towards Managing Director leadership.Some leadership opportunities ask you to keep the wheels turning. This one asks you to change what the business is capable of.Following its acquisition, Vexila is entering a new chapter. With sophisticated engineering capability, established customer relationships and opportunities in local and international markets, the business needs an exceptional manufacturing leader to turn that potential into sustained performance.Supplying critical electricity transmission, distribution and rail infrastructure markets, Vexila operates a complex manufacturing environment spanning foundry operations, tooling, wire forming, component manufacture and assembly.Your mandate: strengthen manufacturing performance, build people capability and create the operational foundation for profitable growth.You will:

• Improve throughput, productivity, quality, cost and delivery.
• Remove bottlenecks and strengthen manufacturing flow, capacity and process control.
• Translate operational improvements into stronger margins and profitability.
• Develop managers and technical teams, embedding accountability and improvements that last.
• Build constructive employee and labour relationships.Location matters: this role is based on-site in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. Applicants must be based within practical travelling distance or willing to relocate.What you’ll bringA relevant tertiary qualification in Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management or a related discipline. Equivalent substantial experience may be considered.At least 10 years’ senior-level manufacturing and/or operations leadership experience, with responsibility for a complex operation or significant manufacturing function.Proven leadership across multiple manufacturing processes and technical disciplines.Measurable results in operational improvement, transformation and resolving manufacturing constraints.Strong knowledge of production planning, process control, engineering/maintenance, quality and performance management.Sound financial and commercial understanding, including manufacturing costs, budgets, CAPEX and profitability.Experience developing operational and technical teams, ideally in a labour-intensive, unionised environment.We’re looking for a visible, hands-on leader who combines curiosity, sound judgement and personal accountability with the ability to build capability in others.Ready to broaden your leadership?This role offers a potential pathway to Managing Director. Future progression will depend on demonstrated performance, readiness and the business’s formal appointment processes.To apply: send your CV and a brief motivation to the link below, highlighting your manufacturing achievements and your willingness to work in Pietermaritzburg.Art of Talent is exclusively managing this appointment. All applications and discussions will be treated confidentially.Vexila is committed to employment equity and an inclusive workplace. Preference may be given to suitably qualified candidates in accordance with its Employment Equity Plan.#OperationsDirector #ManufacturingLeadership #ExecutiveOpportunity #Pietermaritzburg #KwaZuluNatal #ArtOfTalent