Plant Manager – Automotive Manufacturing

SUMMARY:
We are recruiting a Plant Manager in the Automotive Manufacturing Industry to lead and manage all aspects of the plants operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality production. Drive continuous improvement, cost control, and workforce productivity while aligning operations with company strategy.

POSITION INFO:

Plant Manager – Automotive Manufacturing

Pretoria

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee plant functions: production, maintenance, quality, logistics, engineering, and safety.

• Develop production plans to meet demand, delivery, and cost objectives.

• Ensure compliance with automotive standards (IATF 16949, ISO 14001, ISO 45001).

• Drive Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen initiatives to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

• Monitor KPIs (OEE, output, scrap, downtime, cost per unit, safety metrics).

• Lead workforce planning, recruitment, and training in collaboration with HR.

• Foster strong stakeholder relationships with customers, suppliers, and unions.

• Manage plant budgets, optimize resources, and implement cost-saving initiatives.

• Champion safety and environmental sustainability.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s in Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering.

• 10+ years in automotive manufacturing, incl. 5+ years in senior management.

• Strong knowledge of automotive processes (stamping, welding, assembly, machining).

• Proven leadership of large teams in high-volume, fast-paced environments.

• Experience with Lean, Six Sigma, TPM, ERP systems (SAP, Oracle).

• Valid driver’s license.

Skills & Attributes:

• Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making.

• Financial and budget management expertise.

• Advanced problem-solving and process optimization skills.

• Knowledge of safety regulations and global best practices.

Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Production and delivery performance.

• OEE and cost per unit.

• Quality metrics (PPM, warranty, rework).

• Safety compliance and incidents.

• Employee engagement and retention.

• Customer satisfaction.