Production Planning Manager / 2IC

SGS is the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company. SGS is recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. With more than 89,000 employees, SGS operates a network of over 2,600 offices and laboratories around the world.

The Production Planning Manager / 2IC has the overall responsibility for the planning of samples through the processes and client communication of the laboratory at the Brits site. Through continuous improvement and optimize the utilization of the laboratory’s throughput according to client’s requirements. Ensure that the overall production for the Geochem facility under his / her control is achieved.

• Plan and prioritize a production schedule for the jobs/projects in according with lab capability and client requirements. 
• Implement and control the production schedule.
• Review and adjust the schedule where needed.
• Where possible, do forecasting and planning for upcoming projects or changes in scope for existing projects. Communicate these finding to senior management team.
• Ensure efficient collaboration and co-ordination between relevant departments including procurement, human resources and management.
• In conjunction with Section Manager and/or Laboratory Manager:

• Formulate changes, improve workflow and maximum utilization of resources in the departments.
• Monitor effective utilization and supervision of human resources within the department/s, including training, recruitment and discipline.
• Assist with decisions making about equipment use, maintenance, modification and procurement to ensure production targets can be met.

• Direct communication with clients daily on:

• Status updates on new and existing projects.
• Re-negotiating timelines or schedules as necessary.

• Prepare and maintain production reports
• Monitor and review the performance of staff and organize necessary interventions for improvement on production targets
• Ensure implementation and adherence to health and safety procedures
• Perform any other reasonable tasks as assigned by direct line manager.

Education

• Minimum BSc, BTech or National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry or at least 10 years’ experience in an Analytical Lab.
• Minimum of 5 years’ solid management experience,
• Qualification in Business improvement initiatives will be an added advantage.

Experience

• Minimum 10 years’ experience in a commercial laboratory environment.
• Familiar with SGS analytical practices
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in customer relationship management
• Strong knowledge of SLIM
• Previous experience in production planning will be an added advantage.
• Previous analytical and technical laboratory experience an advantage
• Good knowledge of ISO17025 requirements 

Required Skills:

• Good co- ordination and proven management skills.
• Advanced level of competency in MS Office Suite (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook), to perform word processing, spreadsheet database tracking data and written client communications.
• Statistical evaluation techniques advantageous
• Ability to work well under pressure and tight timelines.
• Ability to prioritize activities and be flexible to adjust to a variety of situations.
• Ability to effectively coordinate with various departments and levels of staff.
• Possesses excellent organizational and written/verbal communication skills - Must be fluent in English.
• Possesses strong teamwork and project management skills.
• Results oriented with a strong performance, cost management, and bottom-line orientation
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to depersonalize situations and focus on the business objectives.
• Energy to motivate a team to always deliver results;
• Able to work independently and to coordinate several activities simultaneously;
• Is innovative with a systematic approach for problem solving;
• Acts quickly and decisively; able to make tough calls;
• Holds self and others accountable

Compliance and Authority

• Utilize company resources in accordance with SGS procedures.
• Initiate changes on material and human resources, where and when needed to ensure production targets are met.  
• Liaise directly with clients on status of projects, methods, queries, complaints and costs
• Cease the use of any equipment that may be deemed to constitute a safety hazard or entry to hazardous environments without necessary knowledge and protection, and take action to address the hazard.
• Cease to carry out work that may affect the quality (integrity) of services and take action to address the issue.
• Initiate a formal improvement request when a deviation of the system occurs, possible improvements are identified or when nonconformity is identified.
• Implementation and maintenance of the quality system.