Project Manager, Automotive Manufacturing Excellence

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Stable employment

Job summary

Placements24 in East London, Eastern Cape, is seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead manufacturing excellence and process optimization in automotive production. You will develop detailed project plans, drive Lean Six Sigma initiatives, manage budgets, timelines, and cross-functional teams on-site.

The role requires a Bachelor's in Engineering or Business, 6+ years in manufacturing project management, and proficiency with MS Project/ERP.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of project management experience in manufacturing environments, preferably automotive.
• Proven ability to implement Lean Manufacturing and drive continuous improvement.
• Strong understanding of automotive production processes, quality control, and supply chain dynamics.
• Experience with ISO 9001 / IATF 16949 is highly desirable.
• Proficient in project management software and data-driven decision making.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage projects aimed at improving manufacturing processes, quality, and efficiency in automotive production.
• Develop detailed project plans, including scope definition, timelines, resource allocation, and budget management.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement using methodologies like Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma.
• Oversee project execution, ensuring adherence to quality standards, safety regulations, and production schedules.
• Collaborate with production teams, engineering departments, quality assurance, and suppliers.
• Manage project risks and issues, developing and implementing effective mitigation strategies.
• Monitor project progress, track key performance indicators, and provide regular status reports to management.
• Implement change management plans to ensure successful adoption of new processes and technologies.
• Facilitate project meetings, workshops, and training sessions.
• Ensure effective communication and coordination across all project stakeholders.

Skills

Project management

Lean manufacturing

Leadership

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Business

Tools

MS Project

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role Our client, a key player in the automotive manufacturing industry, is seeking a dedicated Project Manager to drive initiatives focused on manufacturing excellence and process optimization. This on-site role is based in East London, Eastern Cape, ZA, and requires a hands-on approach to managing projects within a fast-paced production environment. You will be responsible for implementing improvements that enhance quality, reduce costs, and increase efficiency in automotive production lines. This position is critical for maintaining our client's competitive edge and requires a strong background in manufacturing processes and project management methodologies. Join a well-established company that values innovation and offers substantial career development opportunities within the automotive sector in East London, Eastern Cape, ZA. Your work will directly contribute to the quality and efficiency of vehicle production.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage projects aimed at improving manufacturing processes, quality, and efficiency in automotive production.
• Develop detailed project plans, including scope definition, timelines, resource allocation, and budget management.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement using methodologies like Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma.
• Oversee project execution, ensuring adherence to quality standards, safety regulations, and production schedules.
• Collaborate with production teams, engineering departments, quality assurance, and suppliers.
• Manage project risks and issues, developing and implementing effective mitigation strategies.
• Monitor project progress, track key performance indicators, and provide regular status reports to management.
• Implement change management plans to ensure successful adoption of new processes and technologies.
• Facilitate project meetings, workshops, and training sessions.
• Ensure effective communication and coordination across all project stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, Manufacturing), Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in project management, with a significant focus on manufacturing environments, preferably automotive.
• Proven experience implementing Lean Manufacturing principles and driving continuous improvement initiatives.
• Strong understanding of automotive production processes, quality control, and supply chain dynamics.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, ERP systems).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Must be able to work full-time on-site in East London, Eastern Cape, ZA.
• Experience with quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001, IATF 16949) is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-related bonuses.
• Opportunity to work with leading automotive manufacturing technologies.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund.
• Professional development and training programs.
• Stable employment with a reputable industry leader.
• Positive and collaborative workplace culture.