Assistant Production Manager

SUMMARY:
Our Durban North food manufacturing client requires an Assistant Production Manager, preferably with an industrial catering background, to assist with running a team of 50.

POSITION INFO:
Primary Job Function

• Assist Production Manager in the operations of running an FSSC22000 compliant food manufacturing facility.  Targets and output performance of production units will be a significant deliverable.
• Control and monitor production costs

• Assist Production Manager in planning, managing and executing production operations
• Coordinate and plan production priorities, workflow and schedule
• Identify and report operational and maintenance problems to prevent production delays
• Schedule routine inspection and maintenance of production equipment to prevent equipment breakdowns and malfunctioning
• Develop or update standard operating procedures and best practices for production operations
• Ensure that all equipment, materials and supplies are readily and continuously available to carry out production processes
• Ensure performance targets are achieved by continuous performance monitoring 
• Oversee product, process and equipment trials and write up the necessary documentation
• Ensure cyclical stock counts on materials and finished goods are carried out according to procedures and schedules
• Address employee concerns and complaints in professional manner
• Assist in interviewing, hiring and training new employees
• Manage performance review, appraisals, and promotions for employees.
• Optimise production operations to meet quality and performance standards
• Assist in documenting all work instructions and procedures
• Ensure safety measures and procedures are followed to reduce unexpected incidents and hazards
• Determine resource requirements and work allocation for production operation
• Analyse overall budget and implement cost-optimisation initiatives
• Responsible for the opening and closing of the factory and be available to work night shift from time to time

• Matric
• Speak English, Zulu as an additional language will be beneficial
• Computer literate - Microsoft office / Google Docs
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and written.
• Tertiary qualification will be beneficial. (Food Service Management / Catering Management)
• 5 to 7 years work experience in food manufacturing / large scale food production
• Food safety management program training - HACCP or FSSC22000
• OHAS training
• Understanding of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act
• Experience in managing a large number of people and conflict resolution
• Good organisational skills
• Good leadership skills
• Experience in problem solving techniques
• Experience in budget write up and managing
• Project motivation experience will be a added advantage
• Must be prepared overtime and weekends