Production Planning Manager - Automotive Components

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Performance-based incentives

Training and development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly organised Production Planning Manager to oversee operations in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. The role requires developing production schedules, optimizing inventory, and aligning with sales and procurement to meet demand while driving efficiency across the plant.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in manufacturing planning, excellent analytical skills, and experience leading a planning team.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in production planning, scheduling, or operations management, preferably in automotive/manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage production plans and schedules to meet orders and demand forecasts.
• Monitor progress against schedules; identify deviations and take corrective actions for on-time delivery.
• Manage and optimise inventory levels for raw materials, WIP, and finished goods.
• Collaborate with sales/marketing to understand demand patterns and forecast needs.
• Coordinate with procurement to ensure timely availability of materials and components.
• Lead and mentor the production planning team to achieve results and KPIs.
• Develop KPIs for planning and inventory management and ensure quality standards.

Skills

Production planning

Scheduling

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management / Operations Management / Engineering

Tools

SAP

Oracle

Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent manufacturer of automotive components, is seeking a highly organised and strategic Production Planning Manager to oversee their operations in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This role is essential for ensuring the efficient and timely production of high-quality automotive parts. You will be responsible for developing and implementing production schedules, managing inventory levels, and optimising resource allocation to meet demand. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in manufacturing planning, excellent analytical skills, and a proven ability to lead and develop a planning team. This is a key position within the manufacturing hierarchy, requiring close collaboration with supply chain, production, and sales departments to achieve strategic business objectives. The Durban facility is a vital hub for our client, and this role plays a critical part in its success and growth. We are looking for an individual who can drive efficiency and contribute to a culture of operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage comprehensive production plans and schedules to meet customer orders and demand forecasts.
• Monitor production progress against schedules, identify deviations, and implement corrective actions to ensure on-time delivery.
• Manage and optimise inventory levels for raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to understand demand patterns and forecast future production needs.
• Work closely with the procurement department to ensure timely availability of raw materials and components.
• Coordinate with the production floor to ensure efficient utilisation of machinery, equipment, and labour.
• Analyse production data to identify trends, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement in efficiency and cost reduction.
• Lead and mentor the production planning team, fostering a collaborative and results-oriented environment.
• Develop and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) related to production planning and inventory management.
• Ensure adherence to quality standards and manufacturing best practices throughout the planning process.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in production planning, scheduling, or operations management, preferably within the automotive or manufacturing sector.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, inventory control techniques, and demand forecasting.
• Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and advanced Excel skills.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and developing a team.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.
• Experience with lean manufacturing or Six Sigma principles is an advantage.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Detailed understanding of the Durban manufacturing landscape.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with comprehensive benefits including medical aid, a provident fund, and performance-based incentives. Employees have access to ongoing training and development programs, fostering career growth within the organisation. The role provides significant exposure to key business operations and the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the company's success. Join a reputable company at the forefront of automotive component manufacturing in Durban.