Our client, a leader in the automotive manufacturing industry is seeking an experienced Production Manager to join their team based in Durban.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Grade 12 
• Degree/Diploma in the field of Production/Operations management or Industrial Engineering Science or equivalent NQF level 6 qualification
• Minimum 6 Years in Automotive/Manufacturing experience
• Minimum 6 Years in similar role
• Textile non-wovens advantageous

MAIN JOB FUNCTIONS 

• Develop the plant medium to long term manufacturing strategy
• Assist with developing operational strategy.
• Align plant Manufacturing Strategy to the overall business strategy
• Provide Strategic and Change Leadership to the Manufacturing Function and Teams
• Achieve/exceed the annual Manufacturing Operational Plan in accordance to set goals, targets and criteria
• Plan, schedule and monitor production (Sales forecasts, requirements, stock levels, maintenance requirements, change overs, etc.)
• Schedule and arrange maintenance and repairs for manufacturing operations
• Oversee production planning
• Approve Production Plans
• Analyse and interpret Production statistics/data to identify opportunities for improvements
• Deliver operational results in accordance with plant plans and budgets
• Ensure appropriate standards are established for plant utilisation and efficiency, and that performance is constantly monitored against these standards
• Meet all production & operational deadlines & implement continuous improvement savings
• Optimise the manufacturing processes
• Ensure the optimal and efficient use of plant and production resources
• Manage plant improvement projects
• Investigate and resolve manufacturing related problems and sub-standard performance
• Establish best practices for plant utilisation and efficiencies
• Oversee the activities of production contractors in the plant
• Monitor the level of production material to ensure sufficient material to support production
• Oversee the monthly stock takes and ensures that records are correctly entered
• Implement Planned Maintenance on all equipment with the maintenance dept in line with the Planned Maintenance schedule, as agreed
• Keep up to date with latest production trends and developments
• Benchmark manufacturing processes and technology against best practices
• Continually measure, monitor and provide improvement plans for improving business systems efficiency and cost reduction programs
• Compile Production Reports
• Participate, present & report on all Production issues at HOD meetings
• Monitor the achievement of daily production targets
• Manage individual, team and departmental performance to achieve organisational objectives
• Manage labour stability and complement in line with budget, including managing production headcount
• Participate in the implementation and utilisation of equity related processes, as required
• Plan, organise and monitor production work in plant and within own areas of responsibility
• Determine the training needs of the Department
• Manage workforce discipline and sub-standard performance
• Coach and counsel people to ensure improved performance levels
• Ensure discipline is maintained in department (absenteeism, lateness, overtime, misconduct, etc.)
• Resolve grievances and disputes
• Partake in SACO hours clearances, and exceptions approval process as per Payroll requirements and meeting set deadlines for payroll submission
• Conduct continuous Risk Assessments in the workplace
• Conduct Planned Task Observations in the workplace
• Identify potential hazards and critical safety issues in the workplace
• Address workplace hazards and risks
• Apply safety, health and environment practices and legal requirements when working on machines and equipment