REQUIREMENTS
Affirmative Action South African Citizen preferred
A formal 3-year National Diploma or Bachelor's Degree in Commerce, Finance, Marketing, or Business Management from a recognized institution
A Post-graduate qualification would be an added advantage
Minimum 5 years in the automotive industry, preferably in sales, product planning, or volume planning
ESSENTIAL SKILLS
Ability to analyze complex data and provide logical feedback
Accuracy in data analysis and reporting under pressure
Addressing discrepancies and finding effective solutions
Managing multiple tasks and meeting deadlines
Strong written and verbal skills for conveying plans and updates, with good presentation abilities
Working effectively with cross-functional teams
Adjusting strategies to changing market conditions
Leading and mentoring junior team members, driving process improvements
Balancing projects, reporting, and ad-hoc tasks efficiently
Aligning planning strategies with business goals
Understanding automotive industry dynamics, market trends, and consumer behaviour for informed decision-making
ADDED ADVANTAGE
Knowledge and understanding of the group's systems, forecasting tools (e.g. IVA system), and MS Excel
A strong understanding of the group's passenger product range
RESPONSIBILITIES
Ensure the efficient and effective forecasting, planning, and allocation of production volumes to meet market demand and business goals
Oversee the planning processes, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and drive data-driven decision-making to optimize production schedules and inventory management
Sales forecasting: lead the sales forecasting process using the IVA system to ensure that wholesale and stock reporting aligns closely with a realistic outlook
Production planning: develop and maintain production plans that balance market requirements with manufacturing capabilities, ensuring seamless integration and alignment with business strategies
Collaboration and coordination: work closely with sales, product, and manufacturing departments to synchronize production plans with the sales forecast and product launches/ changes
Data management: oversee the collection, analysis, and interpretation of relevant data to support volume planning decisions and identify opportunities for improvement
Process improvement: continuously evaluate and enhance volume planning processes and methodologies to improve accuracy, efficiency, and responsiveness to market changes
Wholesale and stock reporting: ensure timely and accurate reporting of wholesale and stock data to the Finance department, adhering to set dates and times
Model mix planning: develop and implement model mix planning strategies for each product to meet market demands and optimize production efficiency
Reporting and communication: provide regular updates, reports and presentations to senior management, highlighting key insights, potential risks, and recommended actions to achieve volume planning objectives
Systems reporting: management of the operation of group systems supporting vehicle planning and ordering functionality (EPL/ FPL/ NADIN)
Long-term planning: lead the planning process using the IVA system and ensure accurate reporting for the retail, wholesale and stock planning
Product change management: management of run-out and run-in planning of model types and model derivatives to minimize obsolescence and cost
IVA system management: management of the system including liaising with IS on systems requirements, overseeing the admin functionality and liaison with other divisions within the group