Factory Manager (Steel Industry) at Kloverharris Limited

• The Factory Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of production operations, ensuring efficient manufacturing processes, maintaining high product quality, enforcing safety standards, and managing costs.
• This role also includes driving continuous improvement initiatives and providing leadership to foster a culture of excellence.

Reports to the Operations Director

Operational and Production Management:

• Plan, manage, and execute daily production operations to meet customer orders and production targets.
• Develop and enforce operational procedures to maintain efficiency, minimize downtime, and improve productivity.
• Oversee critical processes such as annealing and other steel production stages, ensuring precision and efficiency.
• Manage the preparation and implementation of production schedules, adjusting plans as necessary to optimize output and cost-effectiveness.
• Collaborate with procurement to ensure timely availability of raw materials and supplies, supporting continuous production flow.
• Supervise steel manufacturing staff, including steel controllers, to ensure optimal resource allocation and sustained productivity.
• Monitor equipment performance, coordinating maintenance to avoid unplanned downtime and ensure optimal machine functionality.

Quality Control:

• Ensure adherence to product quality standards and swiftly address any issues with the Quality Control team.
• Lead initiatives to improve product quality, reduce waste, and enhance overall manufacturing processes.
• Implement corrective actions for any production or quality issues in alignment with industry certifications (e.g., ISO, ASTM).

Safety and Compliance:

• Maintain a safe working environment by enforcing company safety policies and conducting regular audits.
• Train staff on safety protocols, including the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations (e.g., OSHA), along with emission, waste management, and energy efficiency standards.

Cost Management:

• Monitor and control the factory's budget, including labor, production, and maintenance costs, while ensuring high production standards.
• Identify and drive cost-saving initiatives to enhance operational efficiency without compromising safety or quality.
• Perform financial analysis to discover areas for cost reduction and improve overall profitability.

Inventory and Supply Chain Management:

• Oversee inventory levels of raw materials and finished products to meet production demands without overstocking.
• Collaborate with logistics and procurement to ensure timely receipt and dispatch of materials.
• Implement inventory control systems to optimize the production flow and reduce material wastage.

Continuous Improvement, Reporting, and Analysis:

• Prepare and present production reports, including KPIs, downtime analyses, and output metrics.
• Analyze operational data to identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies, implementing corrective measures as necessary.
• Lead continuous improvement programs, such as Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma, to increase efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality.
• Stay informed about industry trends and recommend the adoption of new technologies or processes to maintain a competitive edge.

Leadership & Accountability:

• Foster a culture of professionalism, accountability, and continuous improvement within the team.
• Hold both self and team accountable for meeting production targets and operational goals.
• Act as a mentor to team members, promoting collaboration and guiding their development to align with company objectives.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• 7-10 years of experience in steel manufacturing or heavy industrial sectors, with expertise in processes like casting, rolling, and forging.
• Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to inspire and lead a diverse team.
• In-depth knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong understanding of safety and environmental regulations, including OSHA.
• Proficient in production planning software, ERP systems, and MS Office Suite.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to manage complex projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Financial acumen, with experience in managing budgets and identifying cost-saving opportunities.
• Strong communication skills for effective collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certifications in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Familiarity with advanced manufacturing technologies, including automation, robotics, and Industry 4.0 applications in steel production.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of French is aslo an advantage.