Production Manager - Automotive

Our client is seeking an experienced Production Manager to join the Uitenhage team, · Plan, organise, and manage daily, weekly, and monthly production schedules to meet customer demand. · Ensure optimal utilisation of labour, machinery, and materials. · Monitor production output, efficiency, scrap, and downtime; implement corrective actions where required. · Drive continuous improvement initiatives (Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, 5S). · Ensure compliance with automotive quality standards such as IATF 16949, ISO 9001, and customer-specific requirements. · Work closely with Quality to investigate non-conformances, customer complaints, and internal defects. · Ensure adherence to process controls, work instructions, and standard operating procedures. · Ensure compliance with South African OHSA, company safety standards, and environmental regulations. · Promote a strong safety culture and ensure risk assessments, toolbox talks, and safety audits are conducted. · Investigate incidents and implement preventative measures. · Lead, motivate, and develop production supervisors, team leaders, and operators. · Manage staffing levels, shift patterns, overtime, and absenteeism. · Conduct performance reviews, training needs analysis, and succession planning. · Ensure compliance with labour legislation and company HR policies. · Manage production budgets and control manufacturing costs. · Analyse KPIs such as OEE, productivity, scrap, rework, and delivery performance. · Implement cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality or safety. Requirements · Grade 12 · Bachelor’s Degree or National Diploma in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Production Management, or similar. · Relevant production or operations management certification will be advantageous. · 5–10 years’ experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 5 years in the automotive industry. · Proven experience managing high-volume automotive production lines. · Strong understanding of automotive manufacturing processes (assembly, machining, press, welding, or injection moulding depending on plant). · Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and Continuous Improvement tools. · Experience with ERP/MRP systems and production reporting tools. · Solid understanding of IATF 16949 and automotive quality systems.