Automotive Production Manager

Boikago Group; Durban; On-site; ZAR 500 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automotive parts manufacturing company in Durban is seeking a Production Manager to oversee the production team. The role involves ensuring the production of high-quality parts, managing KPIs, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Candidates should have a strong background in production management within the automotive industry and possess leadership and technical skills to drive performance.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of production experience in the Metal or Automotive industry.
• At least 3 years in a production management role within a unionized environment.
• Knowledge of Kaizen and Lean Manufacturing techniques.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the production team to ensure high-quality parts production.
• Implement and maintain production policies and procedures.
• Conduct risk assessments and manage critical issues.

Skills

Leadership

Planning

Communication

Project Management

Interpersonal Skills

Technical Proficiency

Problem Solving

Education

Engineering degree/diploma

Diploma in Production Management (NQF Level 6/7)

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Automotive Production Manager (Durban)

An automotive parts manufacturing company based in Durban, KZN is seeking a Production Manager to lead and manage the production team. The goal is to create a management culture that drives performance, ensuring the production of high-quality parts on time, in full, and within budget to meet customer and stakeholder expectations in a safe working environment.

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS

1. Process ownership for the Production Department, including implementing, maintaining, and updating all policies and procedures.
2. Meeting all customer and executive management KPIs; investigating root causes and implementing improvements when KPIs are not met.
3. Conducting risk assessments and executing activities to mitigate high-risk processes.
4. Maintaining 5S and housekeeping standards across all areas of responsibility.
5. Managing critical issues such as risk stock levels and potential SSNs.
6. Ensuring Group Leaders follow activity schedules and use production recording systems for reporting.
7. Leading, mentoring, and recruiting Supervisors and Technical specialists.
8. Developing, appraising, and mentoring Group Leaders with a focus on continuous skills development.
9. Handling customer complaints, CARs, and audit findings promptly and effectively.
10. Using DMAIC and PDCA problem-solving methods to identify root causes and implement sustainable improvements.
11. Preparing and validating the 8D process for problem resolution.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Preferably an Engineering degree/diploma or Diploma in Production Management (NQF Level 6/7).
• Minimum 5 years of production experience in the Metal or Automotive industry, preferably OEM.
• Experience in welding is an advantage.
• At least 3 years in a production management role within a unionized environment managing a large team.
• Computer literacy with proficiency in MS Office at an intermediate level.
• Knowledge of Kaizen and Lean Manufacturing techniques.
• Technical skills in materials and inventory management, production scheduling, and preventive maintenance.
• Strong leadership, planning, interpersonal, communication, project, and program management skills.
• Quality-oriented mindset and technical proficiency.