Team Leader

Job Description

• We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Production Team Leader to join our Isando Coffee & Creamer Factory.
• This role requires expertise in safety management, people leadership, production planning, and labour cost management within a fast-paced FMCG environment.
• You will be responsible for ensuring production efficiency, safety compliance, and the overall quality of our output while leading your team to success.
• Explore your next opportunity with Entyce and grow great brands with us.

Reporting Structure:

• Reports to: Manufacturing Manager
• Direct Reports: +/- 40

Key Areas of Impact:

Safety, Health, and Environment:

• Enforce correct PPE usage and compliance with safety protocols.
• Promote a strong safety culture, ensuring each shift has a designated SHE rep, first aider, and fire fighter.
• Conduct emergency evacuation drills and complete near-miss reports.
• Ensure timely resolution of safety and health incidents and lead COVID-19 compliance efforts.
• Conduct weekly toolbox talks and ensure proper waste segregation and disposal.

Production Management:

• Lead production teams to meet daily shift targets as per SKU specifications.
• Ensure rapid response to equipment breakdowns and labour availability.
• Oversee pre-checks on machines and manage support departments to provide top service.
• Track hourly production output and monitor adherence to the production plan.
• Maintain high product quality standards and ensure first-time-right production.

Cost Control:

• Optimize labour management, including controlling overtime and absenteeism.
• Lead efforts to reduce waste, participate in troubleshooting, and manage start-up times.
• Plan for efficient changeovers, ensuring minimal downtime and smooth production transitions.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance plant efficiency.

Quality and Food Safety:

• Ensure seamless maintenance handovers and proper storage of safety equipment and chemicals.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and maintain high hygiene standards during production runs.
• Lead quality checks and empower operators to take ownership of their output.
• Ensure non-conforming products are addressed and corrected swiftly.

People Management:

• Lead and develop your team with a genuine concern for their growth and well-being.
• Provide ongoing training, coaching, and development using IDP and Skills Matrix frameworks.
• Ensure team members are multi-skilled and well-equipped to meet operational demands.
• Offer recognition, reward, and constructive feedback, while holding individuals accountable for their performance.
• Foster a culture of innovation by encouraging team suggestions and ideas.

What It Takes to Succeed:

Experience that set you up for success:

• 4+ years of experience in production within the FMCG industry.
• 2-5 years of supervisory experience in a complex manufacturing structure and unionized environment is essential

Qualifications & Certifications that will contribute to your success:

• National Diploma or Degree in Production Management, Operations Management or Industrial Engineering.

Additional Requirements that will enhance your impact for success:

• Proficiency in Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS), such as Shopware, Pragma, SAP.
• Strong knowledge of the MS Office suite.
• Excellent analytical thinking and problem-solving skills

Why Choose Entyce as your new home?

• Iconic Brand Portfolio: Work with some of South Africa’s most recognised and trusted beverage brands.
• End-to-End Exposure: Gain visibility across the full value chain — from factory to shelf.
• Commercial Impact: Be part of a team that drives real business outcomes in a competitive FMCG environment.
• Strong Operational Backbone: Supported by two established, high-volume manufacturing sites.
• Growth & Development: Opportunities to grow within a structured, performance-driven organisation.