Website Defy Appliances
Defy Appliances (Pty) Ltd is Southern Africa’s largest manufacturer and distributor of major domestic appliances. The company markets its products under the Defy brand and offers the consumer a full range of kitchen, laundry and small domestic appliances. Established in 1905, Defy made its debut … read moreby manufacturing the first electric stove in South Africa. In the last 112 years, the brand has further entrenched its footprint in South African households through manufacturing durable goods such as gas ovens, washing machines, dryers and ovens. This led to Defy becoming the biggest white goods manufacturer in the country while presenting the largest product range in South Africa. In 2011 Defy was attained by leading Turkish home appliance group, Arçelik. Having operations in durable consumer goods industry with production, marketing and after-sales services, Arçelik offers products and services around the world with its 30,000 employees, 18 different production facilities in 7 countries. Please note that in order to purchase any product or for pricing queries, you will need to visit a retail outlet that sells kitchen and laundry appliances. Defy operates three factories: Jacobs Ezakheni (Ladysmith) East London All factories have been accredited in terms of ISO 9001-2009. Our products can be viewed online at www.defy.co.za or by visiting the various dealers countrywide Sales & service centres are available country wide in the major provinces – please refer to our website www.defy.co.za for contact details and addresses. Also like and follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/DefySouthAfrica/, Twitter twitter.com/defy_sa, Instagram instagram.com/defysa/. Defy’s Cooking Appliance Range is at the heart of our business, bringing style to the ritual of baking and excitement to the idea of preparing a family feast in your home. Our Gemini Collection boasts a sleek and sophisticated new design, coupled with Feast Master Capacity, ideal for bulk cooking. Defy’s signature Thermofan Technology allows you to use both baking trays at the same time, cooking multiple dishes simultaneously without any flavour or aroma transfer. Defy has recently included a stylish range of small domestic appliance which includes a range of blenders, juicers and coffee makers. Our Cooling range has extensive range of NO FROST fridges which offers both DUAL COOLING technology (which basically means there is fan in the fridge for greater humidity control – better energy efficiency, better odour control, fresher food for longer) and a 4 star freezer. Our DFF420 offers sophisticated Blue Light Technology, extending the life of your fresh produce. Defy also offers the largest capacity in the market with a 1 meter wide range. All Defy units offer an Auto Defrost fridge section, allows even static units to automatically drain any excess liquid through the back. Defy’s well-renowned chest freezer range offers a multimode function, allowing you the freedom to convert your unit between a fridge, chiller and freezer. Our laundry range boasts Aquafusion technology in our front loaders which maximises washing power efficiency ensuring you get the most out of your detergent. Surf’s up with Defy Aquawave drum technology in both top and front loaders. The technology aids in more effective washing. The company supports its brand position further through its own sales, warehousing, and distribution and after sales service functions. 135 Teakwood Rd, Jacobs, 4052, Durban, South Africa
Job Description
Are you a visionary manufacturing leader ready to shape the future of operational excellence?
We’re seeking a Director – Regional Manufacturing in Durban (Jacobs) to lead strategic oversight of our manufacturing operations, drive performance, and champion innovation across our regional sites.
The Director-Regional Manufacturing role involves developing and implementing production strategies, optimizing schedules, and managing capacity and resources to meet customer demand efficiently. The role develops and fosters technological advancement, implements investment plans, and reports to Senior leadership on performance, plans, and challenges, ensuring the site’s overall success and sustainability.
This is your opportunity to make a lasting impact in a dynamic, fast-paced environment where safety, quality, and sustainability are at the heart of everything we do.
Core Functions
Lead and optimize manufacturing operations to meet customer demand and business goals.
Drive performance across key metrics: safety, quality, cost, delivery, and productivity.
Champion a world-class safety culture and ensure full HSE compliance.
Foster continuous improvement through Lean, Six Sigma, and advanced technologies.
Develop high-performing teams through coaching, succession planning, and empowerment.
Manage budgets, control costs, and deliver sustained financial improvements.
Oversee asset reliability, maintenance, and capital investment projects.
Build strong relationships with employees, unions, and community stakeholders.
Skills and Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Industrial or Operations Management (master’s preferred).
15+ years in unionized retail manufacturing with proven leadership in large-scale operations.
Expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, TPM, and digital transformation.
Proven track record in managing large-scale production facilities and achieving KPIs (quality, cost, delivery, safety).
Strong strategic, financial, and operational acumen.
Ability to foster teamwork, collaboration, and employee engagement.
Experience in change management and digital transformation initiatives.
Exceptional people leadership, stakeholder engagement, and change management skills.
Deep understanding of HSE, compliance, and quality standards.
Apply via company website ( https://www.defy.co.za ) or
defy1.simplify.hr