General Manager – Precision Engineering – East Rand

Position Overview

An established and highly specialised manufacturer and supplier of precision engineered components requires an operationally strong General Manager to lead its head office factory and subsidiary operations.

The responsibilities will require taking full ownership of the business — from shop floor performance to financial results — ensuring the company remains competitive, efficient, and technically superior in demanding industrial markets.

Objective: This business operates in a niche, high-precision environment where reputation is built on quality, reliability, and technical excellence. The GM will be central to maintaining those standards while pushing the company into its next phase of growth.

Minimum Requirements

·        Degree or Diploma in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business Management, or related field.

·        MBA or equivalent (advantageous).

·        10–15+ years’ senior leadership experience in:

·        Manufacturing / Engineering / Industrial production environments

·        Proven experience managing factory operations and leading technical teams.

·        Strong exposure to precision engineering, tooling, or metal processing industries.

·        Demonstrated success in driving business growth and operational improvement.

Key Competencies

·        Strong commercial acumen and strategic thinking

·        Deep understanding of manufacturing processes and production environments

·        Hands-on leadership style — comfortable on the factory floor

·        Financial and operational discipline

·        Ability to balance technical detail with big-picture leadership

·        Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills

Key Responsibilities

·        Strategic & Executive Leadership

·        Define and execute the company’s long-term growth strategy across multiple industrial

·        Identify new market opportunities, partnerships, and product expansion areas.

·        Drive profitability, cost control, and operational efficiency across both facilities.

·        Report directly to shareholders/board and provide clear business performance insights.

Operational Management

Oversee full factory operations including:

·        CNC precision grinding and milling machines

·        Heat treatment processes

·        Tooling manufacture and reconditioning

·        Ensure optimal utilisation of machinery including milling and grinding machines.

·        Improve production planning, turnaround times, and quality control systems.

·        Implement lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.

Technical & Engineering Oversight

·        Maintain high standards of precision engineering and product quality.

·        Support innovation in product performance, durability, and reconditioning processes.

·        Ensure adherence to strict tolerances and technical specifications demanded by industrial clients.

·        Oversee maintenance and upgrading of plant and equipment.

Commercial & Client Engagement

·        Build and maintain strong relationships with key industrial clients across sectors.

·        Oversee sales strategy, pricing, and contract negotiations.

·        Drive revenue growth while protecting margins.

·        Ensure high levels of customer satisfaction and repeat business.

Financial Management

·        Take full P&L responsibility.

·        Manage budgets, forecasting, and cash flow.

·        Drive cost efficiencies across operations and procurement.

·        Ensure sound financial controls and reporting systems.

People Leadership

·        Lead, mentor, and develop a multi-disciplinary team (production, engineering, sales, admin).

·        Build a performance-driven culture with strong accountability.

·        Manage workforce planning, skills development, and succession planning.

Expectations

·        Improved operational efficiency and reduced downtime

·        Consistent delivery of high-precision products within tight tolerances

·        Revenue growth across core and new sectors

·        Strong, stable leadership across both factories

·        Increased market competitiveness and customer retention

Salary offer: Negotiable