Production Manager

Requirements
Main Accountabilities:

HSSE:

• Ensure that all plant operations under control meet the short and longer-term production programs, in a cost effective and safe manner
• Ensure that all activities carried out within the plant operations under control is in accordance with Group HSSE and Legislative standards and requirements
• Ensure HSSE guidelines are implemented, and continuous improvement is achieved
• Carry out the role of asset holder for plant operations within control

Blending and Filling Operations:

• Review, guide and formally approve weekly blending and filling plans
• Ensure timely release of equipment for maintenance as required and reporting of equipment unplanned downtime
• Ensure compliance on Process orders- tracking and timely closure of the same

Month End Closure:

• Ensure all process orders are closed on time
• Ensure batch reconciliation completion – Generation and processing.
• Ensure all inventory and production transactions are completed on time.
• Meet all production KPI’s based on perfect order requirements
• Ensure working procedures to track, record and report stocks including base oils, additives, packaging and work in process are consistently adhered to and any variations are timely investigated, reported and closed as per MoA

Cost Management:

• Maximize productivity of all operating processes (Blending, Filling & RM storage)
• Ensure products are manufactured to specifications preventing costly rework
• Manage within the targeted Opex budget and monitor expenditure against plan
• Seek out ways to optimize the overall production capabilities of the manufacturing facility while reducing total cost
• Ensure effective and efficient operation of all plant/processes/equipment and containing process losses and relends to the minimum
• Ensure efficient consumption of energy, utilities, and other resources in the plant
• Collaborate with key functions to develop and deploy productivity strategies that will drive COGS benefits
• Deliver value to the business typically measured in quantifiable savings or OEE improvement
• Implement Kaizen recommendations and drive approved plans to activate continuous improvement capabilities

People Management:

• Drive best practices that include continuous development of staff competencies, promote diversity and inclusiveness within the organization
• Set clear objectives for the subordinates to maximize their performance
• Responsible for ensuring training of subordinates to secure business continuity
• Motivates, coaches and recognizes others, builds a shared vision and handle conflicts effectively
• Develop working relationships with team members and peers to successfully perform in the role, gain credibility and be respected by colleagues in all levels

Inventory Management

• Responsible for coordinating safe & efficient receipt of bulk products (base oils and additives)
• Ensure daily and monthly tank reconciliation are executed in line with required controls
• Responsible for In-house packaging materials and packed additives – warehousing, issuance and reconciliation
• Responsible for monthly, quarterly and annual stock take in the respective location
• Conduct investigation of inventory variances and reporting of the same with clear mitigation actions

Leadership:

• Responsible to build effective working relationships with identified partners consistent with business guiding principles and safeguarding the interests of the Group
• Ensure compliance with relevant management systems certifications, proper records managements including timely and accurate recording of transactions in approved ERP and the related report submissions
• Carry out any other assignments as maybe directed by management from time to time

Key Challenges:

• Strong management skills to work with staff/operatives having diverse backgrounds
• Track, interpret and implement standards that are applicable to the operations and facilities
• Monitor statistical HSSE performance so that trends can be communicated to the shop floor staff for desired actions
• Maintain a good balance between people issues and Company rules and MOA
• Manage the complexity and build win-win relationships with different parties
• Change management
• Prioritization of tasks and balancing with continuous business needs

Job Knowledge, Skills & Experience:

• Engineering university degree or equivalent qualification
• Minimum 5 to 8 years of production plant experience is required
• The position requires hands on shop floor experience and a flair for managing literate/semi-literate work force
• Proven ability to work independently
• Leadership, Accountability and Teamwork behaviors are required
• Knowledge of local language is critical (Swahili)
• Business improvement skill set and demonstrated exposure in a continuous improvement function is desired
• Proficiency in MS Office packages
• Strong analytical skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Competencies

• Reflects HSSE commitment to employees and contractors
• Fosters a climate of transparency, trust, and respect within team and cross functions
• Recognizes opportunities to enhance outcomes through partnerships with contractors and suppliers
• Assigns and reallocates resources to work effectively
• Coaches, challenges, and provides opportunities for growth
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Planning and organizing
• Decision-making
• Negotiation skills
• Influencing and leading
• Delegation and teamwork
• Adaptability
• Compliance, control & exposure management
• Manage Quality Assurance