Production Manager (metal) Gauteng

The Production Manager will oversee the efficient operation of the Stamping Plant, Ultra Span, Toolroom, and Maintenance departments in a metal and engineering manufacturing environment. The primary responsibility is to ensure the timely delivery of high-quality products while optimizing resources, meeting customer demand, and maintaining smooth production processes. This role requires technical expertise and experience within the Metal & Engineering industry.

The Production Manager will be responsible for planning raw materials, coordinating production activities, and managing maintenance functions to ensure optimal performance and output. This position requires strong leadership skills, as the Production Manager will manage multiple teams across the factory floor.

Reporting to: MD, South Africa & EMEA Manufacturing Director

• Competitive remuneration package within the R850,000 – R1,100,000 range, depending on experience.
• Incentive bonus based on meeting sales targets.
• Relocation assistance for candidates outside Gauteng Province.

Key Responsibilities:

• Production Planning & Coordination:
  • Develop and implement production plans to meet customer orders and delivery timelines.
  • Ensure optimal use of raw materials, minimizing waste and controlling costs.
  • Coordinate with purchasing and supply chain teams to secure timely delivery of raw materials.
• Provide managerial leadership to the following departments:
  • Stamping Plant: 1 Team Leader + 16 employees
  • Ultra Span: 1 Team Leader + 14 employees
  • Toolroom: 1 Team Leader + 1 Toolmaker
  • Maintenance: 1 Team Leader + 3 Artisans/Apprentices
• Quality Control:
  • Ensure all products meet the highest quality standards before dispatch.
  • Identify and rectify any production bottlenecks or quality control issues.
  • Implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product quality.
• Maintenance Management:
  • Oversee the maintenance schedule for machinery and equipment.
  • Ensure preventive and corrective maintenance is carried out efficiently to minimize downtime.
  • Work closely with the maintenance team to troubleshoot and resolve any technical issues.
• Team Management:
  • Train, mentor, and develop employees within the production and maintenance teams.
  • Foster a positive and safe working environment, promoting teamwork and accountability.
  • Ensure adherence to health and safety regulations across all departments.
• Monitor production costs and implement measures to optimize resources and reduce wastage.
• Implement efficiency improvement measures in production processes.
• Reporting & KPIs:
  • Prepare and present regular reports on production performance, including efficiency, downtime, quality control, and any other key performance indicators (KPIs).
  • Align production metrics with the company's strategic goals and performance targets.

Minimum Requirements:

• Technical Qualification (Millwright/Tool Jig & Die Maker/Fitter & Turner) plus a Degree in Production Management or equivalent Business Management qualification.
• 10 years of relevant experience in a Production Management role within the Metal & Engineering Industry.
• Experience in using MRP system for reports and material management.
• Ability to work cross-functionally and managing multiple stakeholders.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data, draw insights, and make data-driven decisions.
• Experienced in influencing and negotiating with diverse stakeholders at all levels in the organisation to maximise business impact.
• Demonstrated experience managing teams across production, maintenance, and toolroom functions.
• Proven work experience in the Metal & Engineering Industry with strong understanding of stamping processes, toolmaking, and equipment maintenance.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Technical proficiency in machinery and maintenance within a production setting.
• Problem-solving abilities with a focus on operational efficiency.
• People management, strong planning, organizational, and decision-making capabilities.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities, collaborating with other team members to streamline customer experience & building strategic relationships with key stakeholders to facilitate growth in sales.
• The incumbent will be required to work long hours if required, call-out in case of emergencies. Monthly stock counts are conducted over periods where there is no stock movement, i.e., weekends. May need to travel (EMEA).