Maintenance Manager – VKB Milling, Christiana

Maintenance Manager – VKB Milling, Christiana

VKB Group
Christiana, North West
Permanent
Posted: 02 August 2024
Closing Date: 16 August 2024

Division: VKB Agri Processors (Pty) Ltd
Business Unit: VKB Milling (Pty) Ltd
Minimum Experience: Associate
Company Primary Industry: Agriculture
Job Functional Area: Maintenance Management

Introduction:

VKB Milling (Pty) Ltd, a leading subsidiary within the VKB Agri Processors (Pty) Ltd, plays a pivotal role in South Africa’s agricultural landscape. As part of the VKB Group, a key player in the country’s agricultural industry, VKB Milling operates several milling facilities that are critical to our mission of adding value to the agri-processing chain. Our operations span across Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and the Northern Cape, where we are dedicated to maintaining world-class standards in every aspect of our business. We provide a dynamic and rewarding environment where our employees can develop their skills and grow within a progressive, innovative organization.

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Maintenance Manager to oversee and coordinate all maintenance activities at our Christiana milling facility. This is a critical role that ensures the smooth operation of our facilities and equipment, contributing directly to our operational efficiency and long-term success. If you are a proactive and innovative leader with a passion for excellence in maintenance management, we encourage you to apply.

Job Function:

As the Maintenance Manager at VKB Milling, Christiana, you will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive maintenance strategy that prioritizes preventative maintenance, minimizes equipment downtime, and maximizes productivity. You will lead a team of skilled technicians, ensuring that all maintenance activities are carried out efficiently and in compliance with industry standards and regulations. This role requires a strong leader who can effectively manage resources, coordinate complex maintenance activities, and drive continuous improvement in our maintenance processes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Maintenance Planning:
  • Develop and implement a proactive maintenance strategy aimed at reducing equipment downtime and optimizing overall plant efficiency.
  • Create detailed maintenance schedules and coordinate activities to minimize disruption to daily operations, ensuring that production targets are met without compromise.
• Team Leadership and Development:
  • Lead, mentor, and manage a team of maintenance technicians, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
  • Provide guidance and training to ensure that all team members are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to meet performance goals and adapt to evolving operational demands.
• Operational Efficiency and Compliance:
  • Oversee the repair, troubleshooting, and maintenance of all plant equipment, ensuring that malfunctions are addressed swiftly to maintain operational efficiency.
  • Ensure that all maintenance activities comply with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and company policies, particularly in relation to health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Resource Management:
  • Monitor inventory levels of spare parts and equipment, establishing strong relationships with suppliers to ensure timely availability of necessary materials.
  • Develop and manage the maintenance department’s budget, including cost forecasting, optimizing spending, and making informed recommendations for capital expenditures.
• Preventative Maintenance and Risk Management:
  • Implement and oversee preventive and predictive maintenance programs designed to minimize breakdowns and extend the lifespan of equipment.
  • Conduct regular inspections to identify potential safety hazards, maintenance needs, and opportunities for upgrades or replacements, ensuring that risks are mitigated proactively.
• Cross-Departmental Collaboration:
  • Work closely with other departments to coordinate maintenance activities in line with production schedules, ensuring that all operations run smoothly and efficiently.
  • Provide technical support and expertise to other teams as needed, contributing to the overall success of the plant’s operations.
• Documentation and Reporting:
  • Maintain accurate records of all maintenance activities, including equipment history, inspection reports, and compliance documentation.
  • Prepare and present detailed reports on maintenance performance, including analysis of downtime, maintenance costs, and improvement initiatives.

Requirements:

• Educational Qualifications:
  • Relevant Technical Diploma (Mechanical or Electrical) or a Degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering.
  • GCC Accreditation/Registration will be a strong recommendation.
• Experience & Skills:
  • A minimum of 5 years’ experience in maintenance management within the silo industry or FMCG sector.
  • Proven track record in developing and implementing successful maintenance strategies and managing complex maintenance operations.
  • Strong technical abilities, including advanced skills in problem-solving, equipment troubleshooting, and plant breakdown resolution.
  • In-depth knowledge of the OHS Act and other relevant safety regulations to ensure legal compliance in all maintenance activities.
  • Proficiency in spares management, with experience in managing inventory levels and supplier relationships.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead and manage a diverse team, with strong interpersonal skills and the ability to foster a positive and productive work environment.
  • Computer literacy with a strong knowledge of maintenance management software, particularly the Pragma plant maintenance program.

Skills:

• In-depth understanding of production procedures and the role of maintenance in ensuring operational efficiency.
• Comprehensive knowledge of health and safety procedures, with the ability to apply this knowledge to maintain a safe working environment.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information clearly and effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Exceptional organizational skills, with a keen attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Proven problem-solving abilities, with the capacity to think critically and make sound decisions under pressure.
• Strong project management skills, with experience in coordinating maintenance activities in line with production or project schedules.

Other Information:

• VKB Group reserves the right to expire job postings at its discretion.
• VKB Group and/or its subsidiary companies will use any personal data collected through the job opportunities section of this website for recruitment purposes only and, if your application is successful, for purposes connected with your employment.
• VKB Group is an equal opportunity employer. Our approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process aligned with VKB Group’s Employment Equity & Transformation Strategy. VKB Group actively supports the recruitment of People with Disabilities.

Application Guidelines:

• For the best experience, use Google Chrome when accessing our Career Portal.
• Submit a clear copy of your CV in either PDF or Word format; ensure the document is free of handwritten notes.
• Only submit your CV in the designated upload section of the application form. Additional documents, such as your ID or driver’s license, should be uploaded separately as required.
• Ensure that your profile picture meets the minimum size requirement of 300 x 300 pixels.

Join VKB Milling as our Maintenance Manager and play a key role in driving the operational excellence and long-term success of our Christiana facility. Apply now to be part of a team that values innovation, integrity, and continuous improvement.