Our client is looking for a Production Business Manager that will lead a team focused on:

o Managing production costs
o Procurement
o ERP system functionality
o Compliance
o Report development
o Adherence to internal standards.

This role is crucial for:
o Optimizing production efficiency
o Ensuring compliance with regulations
o Supporting data-driven decision-making through accurate reporting.

The ideal candidate will have:
o Strong managerial experience
o Expertise in production environments
o Proven track record in process improvement
o Have financial oversight
o Team leadership.

Key Responsibilities:
1. Managing a team responsible for:
o Procurement
o Production Compliance
o Internal Audits & Standards
o Cost Management
o Systems & Reporting

2. Production Cost Management
o Oversee the tracking and analysis of production costs to identify cost-saving opportunities or risks to the business.
o Collaborate with the finance and production teams to monitor budgeted versus actual production costs.
o Conduct regular reviews of inputs, labour, and overhead costs and implement strategies for cost control and efficiency

3. Procurement Management
o Manage and oversee procurement activities, ensuring the timely sourcing of quality inputs at the best prices.
o Develop and maintain relationships with key suppliers and negotiate contracts to optimize purchasing power.
o Manage procurement schedules and purchasing processes and improve vendor management.

4. ERP Systems and Report Development
o Ensure the ERP system is optimized to support production, procurement, and financial reporting needs.
o Oversee the development and refinement of reporting tools and dashboards to support decision-making.
o Collaborate with IT and finance to troubleshoot ERP issues and drive enhancements to support efficient workflows.

5. Compliance and Standards
o Ensure that all production operations comply with local and national regulations, as well as industry standards.
o Establish and enforce internal standards for quality, health, and safety within production processes.
o Monitor regulatory changes and ensure company practices are updated accordingly.

6. Internal Audits and Risk Management
o Oversee internal audits to ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and regulatory standards.
o Identify and manage potential risks within production and procurement processes.
o Develop corrective action plans for audit findings and ensure timely resolution to mitigate risks.

7. Data Analysis and Reporting
o Lead the generation and distribution of regular and ad hoc reports on production costs, compliance metrics, and procurement.
o Use data to assess and optimize production efficiency, quality, and budget adherence.
o Analyse trends and provide insights and recommendations to senior management.

8. Team Leadership and Development
o Lead, mentor, and develop a team of professionals in cost management, procurement, ERP systems, compliance, and reporting.
o Set performance goals, conduct regular evaluations, and provide coaching to support team growth.
o Foster a collaborative and high-performance team culture focused on continuous improvement.

9. Process Improvement and Strategic Planning
o Drive continuous improvement initiatives in production processes to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
o Assist in developing and implementing long-term production strategies aligned with company goals.
o Identify opportunities for automation, technology adoption, and other innovations that improve productivity.

Qualifications:
• Education:
o Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field.
o MBA or relevant certification (e.g., SAICA, SAIPA, CIMA) is preferred.

• Experience:
o 5+ years in agriculture management role with experience in cost management, procurement, ERP systems, compliance, and internal audits.

• Skills:
o Strong understanding of ERP systems and experience with report development.
o Proven track record in production cost management, procurement, and team leadership.
o Knowledge of compliance and regulatory requirements in an agriculture environment.
o Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
o Excellent organizational, project management, and communication abilities.
o Familiarity with internal audit processes and risk management