Process Improvement Specialist

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Process Improvement Specialist to join the Operations team.

The individual will be instrumental in driving continuous improvement initiatives across all business units in the organization, ensuring adherence to ISO standards and enhancing overall operational efficiency.

Responsibilities

1. Process Analysis and Assessment: Conduct analyses of current business processes in IPP operations, asset management, and solar plant construction to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement.
2. Map and document processes using flowcharts, process mapping software, and other relevant tools.
3. Process Optimisation & Continuous Improvement: Identify and implement process improvements aligned with ISO standards and best practices in renewable energy and infrastructure projects.
4. Develop and implement Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen-based improvement strategies to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs.
5. Standardise asset management, procurement, and maintenance processes to optimise performance across the organisation.
6. Ensure that improvements align with NERSA, Eskom Grid Code, SANS, and other industry regulations.
7. Data Collection, Performance Monitoring, and Reporting: Collect and analyse operational data to track efficiency, identify trends, and validate improvements.
8. Define and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) related to solar plant efficiency, downtime reduction, asset performance, and maintenance schedules.
9. Utilise statistical tools and data-driven decision-making techniques to validate and optimise improvements.
10. Compliance and Risk Management: Ensure all process improvement initiatives align with the organisation's Quality Management System (QMS) and ISO standards.
11. Participate in internal and external audits and work closely with the compliance and risk management teams to address process gaps.
12. Support risk assessments for process inefficiencies, compliance failures, and operational vulnerabilities.
13. Cross-Functional Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement: Work closely with internal business unit teams to implement and sustain improvements.
14. Facilitate workshops, training sessions, and change management initiatives to ensure smooth adoption of new processes.
15. Engage with suppliers, vendors, and contractors to drive supply chain and vendor quality improvements.
16. Digital Transformation & Technology Integration: Support the implementation and optimisation of digital tools, including ERP systems, SharePoint, Basecamp, SCADA, and CMMS (Computerised Maintenance Management Systems).
17. Identify opportunities for automation and digitisation of processes to improve efficiency and reduce manual effort.
18. Ensure alignment between process improvements and the organisation's IT and data strategy.

Desired Skills & Qualifications

1. Education: Undergraduate degree in Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, Quality Management, Operations Management, or a related field.
2. Experience: 5-7 years of demonstrable work experience in process improvement, quality management, or operational efficiency roles, preferably in the renewable energy, utilities, or infrastructure sectors.
3. Proven experience in applying Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, or other process improvement methodologies to achieve measurable business results.
4. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification is advantageous.
5. Strong understanding of ISO standards and Quality Management Systems (QMS).
6. Experience with ISO (Asset Management) is an advantage.
7. Exposure to NERSA regulations, Eskom compliance standards, SANS, and environmental regulations is preferred.
8. Experience working in solar PV plant construction, operation, and asset management is a plus.
9. Skills: Process Analysis and Design, Quality Management Systems, Improvement Methodologies, Data Analysis, and Problem-Solving.