Senior Project Manager - Automotive Manufacturing Process Improvement

Placements24; East London; Hybride; ZAR 1 200 000 - 1 900 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Health insurance

Dental and vision plans

Retirement savings plan

Generous paid time off

Résumé du poste

Placements24 in East London, Eastern Cape, is seeking a Senior Project Manager to lead critical process-improvement initiatives in automotive manufacturing. The role requires hybrid presence on the plant floor and flexible remote planning and reporting.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in project management with 4+ years in process improvement or new technology deployment within automotive manufacturing, and a solid understanding of lean, Six Sigma and IATF 16949 standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering or related field.
• MBA or PMP certification is highly desirable.
• Minimum 7 years of project management experience, with at least 4 years in process improvement or new technology in automotive manufacturing.

Responsabilités

• Develop and execute detailed project plans for manufacturing process improvements including scope, timelines, budgets and resources.
• Lead cross-functional teams of production engineers, quality assurance, supply chain and line workers.
• Oversee implementation of new manufacturing technologies, automation and quality control systems.
• Identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies and develop strategic improvement plans.
• Manage project risks and issues to minimize disruption to production schedules.
• Ensure adherence to IATF 16949 and safety regulations.
• Monitor project KPIs, improvements in productivity, cost reduction and quality.
• Collaborate with internal departments and suppliers/partners.
• Conduct post-project reviews and integrate improvements into operations.

Connaissances

Project management

Cross-functional leadership

Lean & Six Sigma

Stakeholder management

MES

Formation

Bachelors in Industrial/Mechanical/Manufacturing Engineering

Outils

MES

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a leading automotive manufacturer with operations in East London, Eastern Cape, ZA, is seeking an experienced Senior Project Manager to lead critical process improvement initiatives within their manufacturing division. This role is focused on enhancing operational efficiency, reducing production costs, and implementing new manufacturing technologies to maintain a competitive edge. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in project management, a deep understanding of automotive manufacturing processes, and a proven ability to manage complex, cross-functional projects from conception to successful implementation. This position operates on a hybrid model, requiring significant on-site presence at the manufacturing plant for direct oversight and team engagement, complemented by flexible remote work for planning and reporting. We are looking for a results-driven leader with excellent analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills, adept at driving change and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute detailed project plans for manufacturing process improvements, including scope, timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
• Lead and manage cross-functional teams consisting of production engineers, quality assurance specialists, supply chain personnel, and line workers.
• Oversee the implementation of new manufacturing technologies, automation solutions, and quality control systems.
• Identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies in current production processes and develop strategic improvement plans.
• Manage project risks and issues, ensuring minimal disruption to production schedules.
• Ensure adherence to strict automotive quality standards (e.g., IATF 16949) and safety regulations.
• Monitor project performance against KPIs, tracking improvements in productivity, cost reduction, and quality metrics.
• Collaborate effectively with internal departments and external suppliers or technology partners.
• Conduct post-project reviews and ensure successful integration of improvements into standard operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related discipline. An MBA or PMP certification is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 7 years of project management experience, with at least 4 years focused on process improvement or new technology implementation in the automotive manufacturing sector.
• Proven experience managing projects with significant budgetary responsibilities (e.g., R5 million+).
• In-depth knowledge of lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and automotive production systems.
• Strong understanding of quality management systems and automotive industry standards.
• Excellent leadership, communication, problem-solving, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, with a strong emphasis on on-site collaboration.
• Experience within the East London, Eastern Cape, ZA automotive industry is a significant advantage.
• Proficiency in project management software and manufacturing execution systems (MES).

Benefits

• Competitive salary and annual bonus based on project and company performance.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Company-sponsored retirement savings plan.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development, Six Sigma certifications, and further training.
• Access to advanced manufacturing technologies and facilities.
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment.
• Potential for career growth within a leading automotive company.