Dry Process Manager (Weaving and Weaving Preparation) | Hammarsdale, KwaZulu-Natal | Permanent

Lead a critical manufacturing operation where quality, productivity, and technical excellence drive performance. This is an opportunity to shape operational standards within a well-established textile manufacturing environment.

An experienced Dry Process Manager is required to oversee Weaving, Warp Knitting, Weaving Preparation, and Yarn Storage operations within a high-volume manufacturing facility. The successful candidate will take ownership of operational efficiency, quality performance, cost optimisation, and leadership across multiple production areas while ensuring alignment with business KPIs and strategic objectives.

This role requires a hands-on operational leader with strong expertise in textile manufacturing and a proven ability to improve productivity, reduce waste, strengthen process controls, and lead high-performing teams. You will work closely with planning, product development, design, procurement, and executive leadership to ensure operational readiness, product feasibility, and continuous improvement across the manufacturing value chain.

Our client is a respected manufacturing business operating within the textile sector, supplying high-quality products into established markets. The environment is fast-paced, technically driven, and focused on operational excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth.

What You’ll Do

• Manage the efficient running of weaving, warp knitting, weaving preparation, and yarn storage operations
• Drive productivity improvements while maintaining quality and safety standards
• Reduce rejects, waste, and downtime through effective process management and preventative maintenance
• Oversee yarn inventory optimisation, stock accuracy, and consumables management
• Lead root cause analysis and corrective action processes for quality and operational issues
• Coordinate internal audits and ensure compliance with SHEQ standards and relevant legislation
• Support product development and sample evaluation processes from an operational and costing perspective
• Develop and manage departmental budgets and contribute to product costing methodologies
• Optimise manufacturing processes and operational recipes to improve efficiency and cost control
• Lead communication, change management, and continuous improvement initiatives across the department
• Provide technical leadership and subject matter expertise to support operational and strategic objectives

What You Bring

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a Weaving Manager role within textile manufacturing
• Strong leadership experience within a manufacturing or production-driven environment
• Proven exposure to weaving preparation and warp knitting operations
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing and total quality management principles
• Experience managing operational budgets, productivity targets, and process optimisation
• Strong stakeholder management, communication, and problem-solving capability
• Knowledge of manufacturing legislation, compliance standards, and integrated management systems
• Relevant Bachelor’s degree or Diploma in Textile Technology, Engineering, or related field
• Postgraduate qualifications in production management or SHEQ are advantageous
• Exposure to ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, Lean Sigma, or integrated management systems advantageous

What Success Looks Like

• Production targets are consistently achieved while maintaining quality standards
• Waste, downtime, and operational losses are reduced through continuous improvement initiatives
• Yarn inventory and consumable controls are effectively managed and optimised
• Manufacturing processes operate efficiently, safely, and within budget parameters
• Teams are aligned, engaged, and focused on achieving operational objectives
• Product development processes are operationally viable and commercially effective
• Compliance, audit, and SHEQ standards are consistently maintained