Production/Operations Manager - - Durban

Minimum Job Requirements:

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related field.
Honours Degree preferred.
Min. 5 years proven experience in wire harness manufacturing, within the automotive industry.
Min. 5 years experience in a Managerial role.
Strong technical knowledge of manufacturing processes, equipment, and technologies.
Experience with lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
Knowledge of:
- Quality management systems (e.g. ISO standards) and health and safety regulations;
- Industry regulations, quality standards, and safety requirements applicable to automotive manufacturing;
- Lean manufacturing, production processes, equipment, and technologies related to wire harness manufacturing.
Project management, a strong advantage.

Competencies:

Proficiency in data analysis and reporting using manufacturing software tools.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Able to lead teams to achieve manufacturing goals.
Excellent problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to identifying and resolving operational challenges.
Deadline driven.
Knowledge and understanding of labour laws and legal and statutory compliance requirements.
Proficiency in preparation and presentation of reports.
Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Key Performance Areas:

Production/Operations Management:

Overall responsibility for Production, Engineering, Planning, Maintenance, Quality Control, Cost Control, Safety & Risk Management and Project management.
Production planning and execution - develop production plans and schedules.
Lead and mentor a diverse Production team.
Allocate resources, including manpower, equipment, and materials, effectively to meet production targets.
Identify opportunities for process optimisation and implement solutions.
Implement quality control measures and inspect processes to maintain high standards of product quality and compliance with industry regulations.
Implement and maintain quality control measures to ensure that wire harnesses meet industry standards and customer specifications.
Establish and monitor quality assurance procedures throughout the production process.
Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and company policies.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives to streamline production processes,reduce cycle times, and increase overall efficiency.
Implement lean manufacturing principles and methodologies to eliminate waste and optimise resource utilisation.
Develop, implement and optimise operational strategies to enhance productivity and engineering activities, manage staff, asset management, optimise maintenance activities, minimise downtime, reduce costs and manage risk.

Production Engineering:

Manage all projects and optimise activities, collaborate with Engineering teams to design and implement efficient manufacturing processes.
Evaluate and optimise manufacturing processes.

Maintenance:

Develop and implement preventive maintenance programs to ensure the reliability and longevity of production equipment.
Co-ordinate maintenance activities to minimise downtime and maximise equipment uptime.
Establish relationships with equipment suppliers and service providers to ensure timely support and maintenance.
Oversee the maintenance and repair of production equipment.
Lead and manage projects related to process improvement, capacity expansion, and technology integration.
Develop project plans, allocate resources, and monitor project progress to ensure timely completion within budgetary constraints.

Inventory Management:

Oversee inventory levels and implement inventory control measures to optimise stock levels, minimise stock-outs, and reduce excess inventory.
Co-ordinate with Procurement and Logistics teams to ensure efficient supply chain management.

Safety & Risk Management:

Develop and enforce safety protocols and procedures.
Conduct regular safety audits and inspections to identify and mitigate potential hazards.
Implement risk management strategies to minimise operational risks and ensure regulatory compliance.

Performance Monitoring and Reporting:

Establish key performance indicators to monitor production performance and track progress against targets.
Analyse production data, identify trends, and prepare regular reports for senior management to facilitate decision-making.

Cost Management: