Production Operations Manager

**JOB ADVERTISEMENT** **Production / Operations Manager** **(Manufacturing Metal Industry)** First Cut (Pty) Ltd is seeking to employ a competent and experienced Production / Operations Manager to join our dynamic team within the manufacturing metal industry. This role is critical to ensuring smooth operations across all stages of production while maintaining high standards of quality, efficiency, and safety. **Purpose of the Job**: The Production / Operations Manager will be responsible for overseeing all phases of manufacturing operations, including production, quality control, maintenance, inventory, expense control, ISO compliance, health & safety, and general building management. They will manage key departments such as Receiving, Dispatch, Stores, Welding, Butchers, Circular Saw, CNC, and Maintenance, among others. The Operations Manager will work closely with the COO to drive factory process improvements, increase productivity, and ensure the overall profitability of the business. **Key Responsibilities**: - Operational Management:_ - Ensure the operation meets customer service promises by delivering on-time and accurate orders. - Oversee production processes to ensure targets are met, improve efficiency, and reduce costs without compromising on quality. - Regular communication with internal sales teams to ensure alignment of customer commitments with production capabilities. - Asset Management:_ - Maintain proper record-keeping for all company assets (inventory, vehicles, machinery, tools, etc.), ensuring all assets are protected, serviced, and accounted for. - Implement measures to limit asset loss and safeguard company assets with necessary security protocols. - Factory Floor Management_: - Be a visible and active presence on the factory floor, ensuring consistent quality, adherence to processes, and identification of areas for improvement. - Foster a culture of continuous improvement, eliminating waste and optimising resource use across production lines. - Lead by example, arriving first and leaving last to ensure smooth operations. - Staff Leadership and Development:_ - Provide leadership, motivation, and discipline to ensure the effective operation of the factory, overseeing the supervisors and providing necessary support. - Manage staff performance through regular appraisals, coaching, and training. - Ensure a strong company culture by fostering positive relationships, maintaining discipline, and enforcing the company’s disciplinary code when needed. - Production and Efficiency:_ - Monitor and manage production schedules, ensuring efficiency while meeting targets. - Remove production constraints, allocate resources effectively, and continuously improve production processes. - Maintain inventory levels and control the flow of products through the factory. - Quality Control & Compliance:_ - Ensure compliance with ISO quality standards and ensure adherence to documented procedures and training. - Implement "in-line" quality assurance procedures and monitor scrap rates for trends and improvement areas. - Maintenance & Equipment Management:_ - Ensure all equipment is well-maintained, operating efficiently, and in accordance with a preventive maintenance schedule. - Oversee the maintenance team to ensure uptime and minimise downtime. - Health and Safety:_ - Maintain and manage environmental health and safety policies, ensuring all team members are trained and compliant with safety standards. - Promote a superior safety and housekeeping program across the factory floor. - Building & Facility Management:_ - Ensure the building is functional, clean, and well-maintained, including repair work and safety systems. - Ensure CCTV and alarm systems are operational at all times. **Key Performance Areas (KPAs)**: - Meeting production and delivery targets. - Minimising inventory loss (target: