Production Controller (FMCG)

SUMMARY:
Our client in the FMCG sector is looking for a Production Controller to join their team in Gqeberha/Port Elizabeth.

POSITION INFO:
Main Duties, Responsibilities, and Objectives:

• Oversee and enhance production processes to improve product quality and maximize efficiency, while organizing and prioritizing production needs.
• Identify and resolve problems or bottlenecks within production processes.
• Maintain organization of chillers, ensuring adequate ice supply and proper room temperature for product safety. Report any refrigeration issues to management.
• Ensure cleanliness in external areas around chillers and grading stations, preventing exposure of waste and by-products.
• Implement FIFO (First In First Out) practices in grading and processing lines.
• Supply the grading machine with the required sizes of fish based on production needs.
• Possess basic knowledge of grading machine configuration and control.
• Ensure careful and prompt handling of products throughout various processes, meeting high grading and production standards.
• Accurately label bins containing graded raw materials with size, dates, vessel name, and batch number.
• Organize workforce in the processing area according to production manager's instructions.
• Supervise the processing line to ensure accurate scanning of all inputs, providing access to raw materials and tools for filleters without disrupting workflow.
• Monitor input and yield figures to maintain performance above target, supervising hourly production rates.
• Coach and train new employees on best practices.
• Ensure products are packed according to grade and quality specifications, adhering to weight requirements and maintaining excellent presentation.
• Oversee correct labeling of final products, ensuring all details such as product name, grade, production date, batch number, and expiration date are accurate.
• Ensure proper packaging for all products.
• Supervise the entire freezing process, ensuring that products maintain their shape and achieve temperatures of -18ºC or below.
• Facilitate efficient off-packing while keeping product temperatures below -18ºC.
• Minimize waste generation across all areas, reusing underweights and ensuring prompt repacking of damaged boxes.
• Track staff attendance and timekeeping, applying disciplinary measures when necessary.
• Maintain a safe working environment by actively identifying and addressing hazards, conducting accident investigations as needed.
• Supervise factory cleaning efforts, ensuring processing lines are maintained in excellent, food-safe conditions.
• Address employee complaints and resolve issues, while suggesting and implementing cost-saving initiatives.
• Ensure all necessary paperwork is completed and organized at the end of each shift.

• Education: Grade 12 or equivalent.
• Experience: Minimum 1-2 years of supervisory experience; 3-5 years in a production, manufacturing, or processing environment, particularly in cold production.
• Certifications: Supervisory Certificate or completion of a Supervisory Skills Program is advantageous.
• Knowledge:
  • Understanding of production processes and efficiency best practices.
  • Familiarity with food safety regulations and industry legislation.
  • Knowledge of HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points).
  • Awareness of labor legislation (BCEA & LRA).
• Skills:
  • Strong communication skills in English.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and people management abilities.
  • Effective conflict management and time management skills.
  • Self-management and analytical skills.
  • Ability to convey instructions clearly and accurately.
  • Proficient in managing staff and developing positive working relationships within the production team.
  • Strong problem-solving capabilities.
  • Good mathematical skills for understanding and measuring key performance indicators (KPI) such as hourly production, inputs, and yields.
• Quality Focus: Committed to processing products efficiently, safely, and to the highest quality standards.