OverviewOur Client within the Automotive Industry is seeking a Production Manager to join their team. The successful incumbent will be responsible for providing strategic guidance to all production operations, lead, organise, monitor and control all production operations and processes to achieve production and organisational targets. Minimum RequirementsGrade 12/MatricDegree/Diploma in the field of Production/Operations Management or Industrial Engineering Science or equivalent NQF level 6 qualificationMinimum 5 Years in Automotive/Manufacturing experienceMinimum 5 Years in similar roleJob ResponsibilitiesStrategyDevelop the plant medium to long term manufacturing strategyAssist with developing operational strategy.Align plant Manufacturing Strategy to the overall business strategyProvide Strategic and Change Leadership to the Manufacturing Function and TeamsAchieve/exceed the annual Manufacturing Operational Plan in accordance to set goals, targets and criteriaProduction PlanningPlan, schedule and monitor production (Sales forecasts, requirements, stock levels, maintenance requirements, change overs, etc.)Schedule and arrange maintenance and repairs for manufacturing operationsOversee production planningApprove Production PlansAnalyse and interpret Production statistics/data in order to identify opportunities for improvementsProduction ManagementDeliver operational results in accordance with plant plans and budgetsEnsure appropriate standards are established for plant utilisation and efficiency, and that performance is constantly monitored against these standardsMeet all production & operational deadlines & implement continuous improvement savingsOptimise the manufacturing processesEnsure the optimal and efficient use of plant and production resourcesManage plant improvement projectsInvestigate and resolve manufacturing related problems and sub-standard performanceEstablish best practices for plant utilisation and efficienciesOversee the activities of production contractors in the plantRaw MaterialsMonitor the level of production material to ensure sufficient material to support productionOversee the monthly stock takes and ensures that records are correctly enteredMaintenanceImplement Planned Maintenance in line with the Planned Maintenance schedule, as agreedContinuous ImprovementKeep up to date with latest production trends and developmentsBenchmark manufacturing processes and technology against best practicesContinually measure, monitor and provide improvement plans for improving business systems efficiency and cost reduction programsReporting & people managementCompile Production ReportsParticipate, present & report on all Production issues at HOD meetingsMonitor the achievement of daily production targetsManage individual, team and departmental performance to achieve organisational objectivesManage labour stability and complement in line with budget, including managing production headcountParticipate in the implementation and utilisation of equity related processes, as requiredPlan, organise and monitor production work in plant and within own areas of responsibilityDetermine the training needs of the DepartmentManage workforce discipline and sub-standard performanceCoach and counsel people to ensure improved performance levelsEnsure discipline is maintained in department (absenteeism, lateness, overtime, misconduct, etc.)Resolve grievances and disputesPartake in SACO hours clearances, and exceptions approval process as per Payroll requirements and meeting set deadlines for payroll submissionSHEConduct continuous Risk Assessments in the workplaceConduct Planned Task Observations in the workplaceIdentify potential hazards and critical safety issues in the workplaceAddress workplace hazards and risksApply safety, health and environment practices and legal requirements when working on machines and equipment