The Head of Production and Testing is responsible for overseeing the manufacturing processes and testing operations within the company. This role ensures that production activities meet quality standards, comply with regulatory requirements, and are executed efficiently and cost-effectively. The Head of Production and Testing plays a critical role in driving continuous improvement, optimizing workflows, and ensuring that all products meet the highest standards of performance and reliability. This position requires strong leadership, technical expertise, and a commitment to operational excellence.
KEY TASKS
Production Management:
- Oversee all aspects of the production execution process up to delivery.
- Develop and implement production strategies to meet customer demand while optimizing resource utilization and minimizing lead times.
- Ensure that production activities comply with quality standards, safety regulations, and customer specifications.
- Utilizing and maintenance of ERP and other related software to manage and optimize production processes, resources, and tools.
- Anticipates bottlenecks, clarifies priorities, identifies risks, and escalates issues that cannot be internally resolved.
- Accountable for adherence to cleanroom housekeeping and standards
- Oversee the maintenance of all production tools
Testing Operations:
- Manage the testing operations to ensure all products meet the required performance, reliability, and safety standards.
- Ensuring that the testing of products (including electrical, mechanical, optical, magnetic, and environmental as applicable) is performed at appropriate stages in line with the schedule.
- Oversee the maintenance of testing equipment to ensure accurate and reliable results.
Process Optimization:
- Identify and implement process improvements, in collaboration with the Industrialization team, to enhance production efficiency, reduce waste and lower costs.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot production issues and resolve technical challenges.
Quality Assurance:
- Ensure that all production and testing activities adhere to the company’s Business Management System (BMS) and regulatory requirements.
- Develop and maintain relevant processes and introduce new processes where none exist.
- Perform root cause analysis and corrective action initiatives to address quality issues and prevent occurrence.
Team Leadership:
- Build and lead a high-performing production and testing team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
- Provide coaching, training, and mentorship to team members to enhance their skills and career development.
- Ensure effective communication and coordination within the team and with other departments.
Resource Management:
- Allocate resources, including personnel, equipment, and materials, to support production schedules and achieve operational goals.
- Develop and manage production budgets, ensuring cost-effective use of resources and adherence to financial targets.
- Monitor and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to production efficiency, quality and on-time delivery.
Safety and Compliance:
- Ensure that all production and testing activities comply with health and safety regulations and company policies.
- Implement and maintain safety protocols and procedures to protect employees and minimize risk.
- Conduct regular safety audits and training sessions to promote a safe working environment.
Strategic Planning:
- Participate in strategic planning and decision-making processes to align production and testing operations with the company’s overall business objectives.
- Develop long-term production and testing strategies to support business growth, innovation, and competitiveness.
- Stay abreast of industry trends, technologies, and best practices to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence.
Production Planning:
- Develop and manage comprehensive production plans and schedules to meet customer demand and optimize resource utilization.
- Coordinate with various departments, including procurement, supply chain, and production, to ensure alignment and effective execution of production plans.
- Monitor production progress and adjust schedules as necessary to address any deviations or unforeseen challenges.
PREREQUISITES
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering
- >7 years of experience in an electronic manufacturing environment preferable in aerospace or defence
Additional:
- Demonstratable experience in high-tech and high-value (multimillion rand) project implementation & management
- Knowledge of electronic manufacturing methods and practices
- Knowledge of manufacturing ERP system
- Knowledge of industrialization, plant layout and lean manufacturing principles
- Knowledge of environmental test methods and practices (e.g. Dynamic, Vibration, EMC, Thermal)
COMPETENCIES & SKILLS
- Positive self-motivated, self-starter attitude
- Innovative – thinking ‘outside the box'
- Responsible
- Team player
- Good written and oral communication skills
- Customer focused
- Able to persuade and influence others
- Ability to bounce back
- Flexible and able to multi-task, can work within an ambiguous, fast-moving environment
- Resourcefulness
- Ability to self-manage and set priorities
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