About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Project Operations Manager to lead and optimise end-to-end manufacturing, assembly, integration, logistics, inventory, quality, safety, and continuous improvement operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering high-quality products and programmes efficiently, compliantly, and profitably while supporting business growth and operational excellence
Qualifications and experience
Minimum Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical or Electronic), Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related discipline.
Postgraduate qualification in Engineering Management, Project Management, Business Administration, Six Sigma, or Lean Manufacturing would be advantageous.
Minimum 8 years' manufacturing experience with at least 5 years in a senior operational leadership role.
Experience in high-technology manufacturing environments.
Proven experience with operations planning, scheduling, cost management, and supply chain coordination for complex technical programmes.
Key technical skills
Strategic Operations Management.
Production Planning and Control.
Quality Management Systems (ISO 9001, AS9100).
Supply Chain, Inventory and Logistics Management.
Export Control and Regulatory Compliance.
Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement.
Six Sigma Methodologies.
Maintenance and Asset Management.
Digital Manufacturing and Industry 4.0.
Key responsibilities
Operational Delivery and Production Performance
Lead manufacturing and operational execution activities to achieve production, quality, delivery, and efficiency targets, resulting in predictable programme delivery and customer satisfaction.
Quality, Safety and Regulatory Compliance
Ensure compliance with quality, safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements to minimise risk and deliver products that consistently meet customer and statutory standards.
Supply Chain, Inventory and Asset Management
Manage materials, inventory, equipment, and logistics resources to ensure uninterrupted operations, optimal asset utilisation, and reliable programme execution.
Operational Excellence and Financial Performance
Drive continuous improvement and cost optimisation initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, reduce waste, and improve business profitability.
Leadership and Capability Development
Develop and lead high-performing teams to strengthen capability, engagement, succession readiness, and a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
Our recruitment values:
HENSOLDT South Africa focuses on diversity, equity, and inclusion in our organizational strategy. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive corporate culture that benefits our employees and delivers better outcomes for our clients. In line with our commitment to equal employment opportunities and our focus on diversity in the operational environment, we welcome applications from all ethnic groups. In line with HENSOLDT's commitment to equal employment opportunities and our focus on diversity in the operational environment, preference will be given to suitable candidates from designated groups.
Application Deadline 09 July 2026.
How to apply:
Please submit your CV by applying directly on the HENSOLDT Careers page.
If you have not been contacted within 14 days of the closing date, please consider your application
HENSOLDT is a leading company in the European defence industry with global reach. Based in Taufkirchen near Munich, the company develops complete sensor solutions for defence and security applications. As a technology leader, HENSOLDT drives the development of defence electronics and optronics and is continuously expanding its portfolio based on innovative approaches to data management, robotics and cyber security.
In 2023, HENSOLDT achieved a turnover of 1.85 billion euros. Following the acquisition of ESG GmbH, the company employs around 8,500 people. HENSOLDT is listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange in the MDAX.
HENSOLDT has 10 manufacturing sites - located in Germany, South Africa, the UK and France. Our company benefits from our international footprint with offices on all continents.
Our Headquarter is located in Taufkirchen near Munich. Our main sites have all their own product lines and are located in innovative areas: Ulm, Taufkirchen, Friedrichshafen, Oberkochen, Wetzlar and Kiel in Germany, Pretoria and Irene in South Africa, Enfiled close to London, and Plaisir close to Paris.
Why join us?
We pioneer with passion to create competitive premium electronics. Our core competence is to detect and protect: we make an essential contribution to protecting people and nations. We offer various and challenging positions with development perspectives in a friendly and cooperative atmosphere in teams, where collaboration is a key value shared by everyone. Within HENSOLDT you can be a pioneer, take part in new challenges, co-create our company and grow: “Be the Pioneer of our Future!”
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