Job Opportunities

Job Description

An innovative recycling plant located on the Dolphin Coast, KZN, is seeking a local Quality Manager to lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of its Quality Management System (QMS). This role is critical in ensuring compliance with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and customer expectations as the company expands into the African recycling market. The plant has an output of 35,000 tonnes of recycled PET material annually.

Educational Background & Experience:

• A formal Degree in Quality Management, Systems Management, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years' experience in Quality Management and Systems Implementation within an international manufacturing environment, preferably in plastic recycling, the plastic industry, food packaging, or a comparable industry with conveyors, extruders, and similar production equipment.
• Strong knowledge of quality standards such as FSSC22000, ISO9001, and experience in conducting internal and external audits.
• Experience in developing, managing, and improving Quality Management Systems (QMS) and compliance frameworks.
• Familiarity with chemical handling for quality testing and operation of laboratory equipment such as gas chromatography devices, moisture analyzers, and iV measurement tools.
• Proven track record of leadership experience with the ability to train and develop quality teams working in shifts.
• Deep understanding of production performance metrics, continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., 5S, Lean Manufacturing), and Health & Safety practices.
• Strong analytical skills, structured problem-solving abilities, and proactive approach to system improvements.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with proficiency in English and Zulu.
• Ability to work independently in a dynamic and challenging environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Quality Management & Systems Development:

• Develop, implement, and maintain the company's Quality Management System (QMS) in compliance with international standards and regulatory requirements.
• Lead internal and external audits, ensuring ongoing certification and adherence to FSSC22000, ISO9001, and other applicable standards.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product quality, process efficiency, and regulatory compliance.
• Establish and maintain internal procedures for quality control, 5S, and Health & Safety, ensuring their effective implementation across the plant.
• Monitor and analyze quality data over time to identify trends and develop corrective and preventive actions.
• Define and implement risk management strategies related to product quality and compliance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, maintenance, and supply chain, to ensure integrated quality management throughout the manufacturing process.

Leadership & Team Development:

• Manage and develop the Quality team, including recruitment, training needs assessment, skill development, performance evaluation, and disciplinary actions.
• Foster a culture of quality awareness and continuous improvement through training and employee engagement initiatives.
• Lead and support the Quality Inspectors and Operators in achieving high-quality standards.

Compliance & Customer Expectations:

• Oversee customer complaint management, ensuring timely investigation, root cause analysis, and resolution.
• Implement effective control measures for non-conforming products, including lot blocking and rework procedures.
• Ensure full compliance with customer requirements and industry regulations, providing necessary documentation and quality reports.
• Act as the main point of contact for quality-related matters with customers, suppliers, and regulatory bodies.

This role is ideal for an experienced Quality Manager with a strong systems management background, strategic vision, and a hands-on approach to driving quality excellence in a manufacturing environment. 

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted & only local, qualified candidates will be shortlisted.