Project Manager - Automotive Sector

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary with bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Wellness programs

Career advancement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dynamic Project Manager for a key automotive supplier in Kimberley, Northern Cape. You will lead NPI and process improvement projects, guiding them from concept to mass production while ensuring quality, timelines, and budget adherence.

The role requires strong knowledge of APQP/PPAP, IATF 16949, and experience with MS Project or Jira. A bachelor’s degree in engineering and proven leadership in a hybrid work environment are preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical or Industrial) or related field.
• 6+ years in project management within automotive manufacturing.
• Experience with NPI/product development and process improvements.
• Strong knowledge of APQP, PPAP, and IATF 16949.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, execution, and completion of automotive projects.
• Define scope, objectives, deliverables and success criteria.
• Develop and manage detailed project plans with timelines and budgets.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams and manage risks.
• Ensure compliance with IATF 16949 and quality protocols.
• Prepare status reports for senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

PM Methodologies

NPI Experience

Agile & Waterfall

Education

Engineering degree

Tools

MS Project

Jira

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the automotive manufacturing supply chain, is seeking a dynamic Project Manager to join their team in Kimberley, Northern Cape. This role is crucial for managing projects related to new product development, process improvements, and technology integration within the automotive sector. You will be responsible for guiding projects from conception through to successful implementation, ensuring adherence to quality standards, timelines, and budget constraints. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of automotive manufacturing processes, experience with APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) and PPAP (Production Part Approval Process), and excellent leadership and communication skills. This hybrid role based in Kimberley offers a challenging and rewarding career opportunity within a highly competitive industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and successful completion of automotive projects.
• Define project scope, objectives, deliverables, and success criteria.
• Develop and manage detailed project plans, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams, including engineering, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain departments.
• Manage project risks and issues, implementing effective mitigation strategies.
• Ensure compliance with automotive industry standards and quality protocols (e.g., IATF 16949).
• Oversee product development cycles, from initial design to mass production.
• Facilitate effective communication among project team members and stakeholders.
• Prepare and present project status reports to senior management.

Requirements

• Minimum of 6 years of project management experience, with a significant focus on the automotive industry.
• Proven experience managing projects involving new product introduction (NPI) or process improvements in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of automotive quality standards (APQP, PPAP, IATF 16949).
• Proficiency in project management methodologies (Agile, Waterfall).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial) or a related field.
• Experience with project management software (e.g., MS Project, Jira).
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment in Kimberley, Northern Cape.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with performance-related bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development, including industry-specific training and certifications.
• Exposure to advanced automotive technologies and manufacturing processes.
• Hybrid work model balancing office collaboration and remote flexibility.
• Dynamic work environment in Kimberley.
• Career advancement opportunities within a leading automotive supplier.
• Generous annual leave and employee wellness programs.