Posted 4d ago

Executive Operations - Chaingers

@ Henkel
Alrode or Johannesburg-Alrode
OnsiteFull Time
Responsibilities:lead projects, drive improvements
Requirements Summary:3–5 years manufacturing operations experience; engineering background preferred; strong problem-solving, leadership potential; fluent in English; plant-based role at Alrode; permanent contract, growth into leadership.
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Job Description

About this Position

Chaingers: Operations Leadership Program is
one of Henkel’s flagship talent programs - a high-impact opportunity for
professionals with 3–5 years of experience ready to accelerate their careers in
manufacturing operations. This role is designed for experienced professionals who
are ready to take on bigger responsibilities, deeper operational impact, and
a clear leadership path.

Based at our Alrode Plant, this role enables you to develop deep,
hands-on expertise across end-to-end operations, including production,
operational excellence, Smart Factory initiatives, digital transformation, and
people leadership. You will lead critical projects, drive tangible improvements
on the shopfloor, and collaborate closely with plant leadership, while engaging
in regional and global upskilling opportunities.   

What you´ll do

  • Join Henkel’s Chaingers Program - an 18-month immersive journey designed to deepen your operational expertise and accelerate your leadership growth.
  • Gain structured exposure across key operational areas, including production, engineering, supply chain, quality, lean, strategy and people leadership.
  • Lead and contribute to high-impact projects driving optimisation, efficiency, safety, and performance on the shopfloor.
  • Contribute to Henkel’s digital transformation and sustainability initiatives through impactful work in manufacturing.
  • Earn Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification and apply it in real business contexts.
  • Be part of a global cohort of high-potential talent, working alongside peers from across regions, sharing diverse perspectives, and learning best practices from Henkel’s worldwide operations.
  • Start with a permanent contract and competitive package, with enhanced responsibility into a people leadership role upon successful completion.

What makes you a good fit

  • Bachelor’s/ Master’s degree in Engineering (Chemical, Mechanical)
  • 3–5 years of experience in manufacturing operations, production, or plant-based roles (manufacturing/chemical industry preferred)
  • Strong problem-solving skills with a hands-on, execution-focused mindset.
  • Passion for continuous improvement, process optimization, operational excellence & leading people.
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across functions, teams, and diverse cultural environments.
  • Comfortable working in a full-time, plant-based role at Alrode. (remote/hybrid work not applicable for this program)
  • Fluent in English; additional languages are an advantage.
  • Clear aspiration and potential to grow into leadership roles within Operations.
     

Some perks of joining Henkel

  • Flexible work scheme with flexible hours, hybrid work model, and work from anywhere policy for up to 30 days per year
  • Diverse national and international growth opportunities
  • Global wellbeing standards with health and preventive care programs
  • Gender-neutral parental leave for a minimum of 8 weeks
  • Employee Share Plan with voluntary investment and Henkel matching shares
  • Annual 1 month bonus
  • 66.67% company contribution to Medical Aid
  • Subsidised canteen
  • Access to Mental Health & Wellness Programmes

At Henkel, we come from a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives, and life experiences. We believe the uniqueness of all our employees is the power in us. Become part of the team and bring your uniqueness to us! We look for a diverse team of individuals who possess different backgrounds, experiences, personalities and mindsets.