We are seeking an experienced and proactive Production Manager to join our Production Department at our Eastern Cape factory.

Department

Production

Reports to

Managing Director

Location

East London

Employment type

One (1) year fixed-term contract

Overview

The Production Manager leads and oversees all aspects of luxury garment production, ensuring efficiency, quality, and timely delivery. This includes managing production schedules, supervising the factory team, coordinating with the design and buying departments, monitoring material usage, and maintaining strict quality control standards. The role requires strong leadership, operational expertise, and problem-solving skills to ensure that all garments meet the company's luxury quality expectations, production targets, and timelines while supporting the growth and operational excellence of the company.

Roles & responsibilities (but not limited to the following)

• Develop and manage production schedules in line with seasonal collections, retail demand, and stock availability.
• Forecast production needs in collaboration with the Buying Lead and Stockroom Controller.
• Plan workload and allocate resources such as machinery, materials and staff to meet deadlines.
• Monitor garment quality during and after production, ensuring brand standards are met.
• Identify and resolve issues that may delay production or affect quality.
• Identify cost saving opportunities and manage production costs and minimise waste to improve efficiency.
• Supervise all teams to ensure workflow efficiency.
• Assign daily tasks, monitor performance, and provide on-the-job support.
• Lead and motivate the production team, providing support, mentorship and ensuring workplace safety.
• Work with the Buying Team to ensure raw materials are available on time.
• Coordinate with Stockroom and Logistics Teams to ensure finished goods are delivered to stores as planned per the delivery schedule.
• Support the Design Team in developing samples and trial runs for prototype garments.
• Compile and submit an overall monthly production report on production progress, issues, and output.
• Monitor staff productivity, machine use, and material consumption.
• Work closely with the quality control team to ensure all products meet internal and customer specifications.
• Implement corrective actions when quality issues are identified.
• Monitor material usage and optimise workflow to reduce waste and increase efficiency.
• Conduct regular inspections of work in progress and completed garments.
• Work alongside the Finance team to submit monthly payroll inputs for fortnightly salary payments.
• Create a safe and productive working environment, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.
• Ensure adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and production methods.
• Adhere to company policies and procedures.

Desired experience & qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design, Textile Engineering, or a related field.
• A diploma or certification in Production Management, Operations, or Manufacturing will be an added advantage.

Experience

• Minimum of 6–10 years of experience in luxury garment or apparel production, with at least 4–8 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
• Proven experience managing factory operations, production schedules, and quality control processes.
• Experience working with design, sourcing, and finance teams in a manufacturing environment is preferred.

Skills

• Strong leadership and team management skills to guide factory staff effectively.
• Excellent organisational and planning abilities to manage multiple production lines and deadlines.
• Solid understanding of garment production processes, quality control, and workflow optimisation.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities to address production challenges.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to liaise across departments.

Competencies

• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines without compromising quality.
• High attention to detail and commitment to maintaining brand quality standards.
• Analytical thinking to monitor production metrics and optimise operations.
• Collaboration and teamwork to work effectively with Design, Buying, HR, and Finance teams.
• Proactive and self-motivated with a solutions-oriented mindset.
• Knowledge of health, safety, and compliance regulations in a factory environment.

Package & remuneration

TBC

Closing date

25 September 2026

Apply now