Workshop & Production Manager – Automotive OE Supplier (Nairobi)

About the role

Our client, an original equipment (OE) supplier for motor vehicle assembly plants, is seeking a Workshop/Production Manager for its assembly plant located outside Nairobi. The role involves overseeing and optimizing production processes to ensure efficient operations, meet output targets, uphold quality standards, and maintain a safe working environment.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and manage production schedules, lead daily planning meetings and coordinate with procurement, logistics, powder coating and spray‑painting teams.
• Supervise daily assembly operations, monitor output, cycle time and downtime, and implement corrective actions to achieve targets.
• Ensure vehicles meet RMD quality standards by working closely with quality teams to resolve defects and drive preventive improvements.
• Lead, mentor and develop supervisors, technicians and assembly staff through training, performance management and skills development.
• Promote a safe workplace by enforcing safety policies, conducting risk assessments and ensuring compliance with health‑and‑safety regulations.
• Drive process improvements to increase productivity, reduce waste and lower costs while staying current with manufacturing best practices.
• Manage production budgets, optimise resource utilisation, oversee inventory levels and ensure equipment maintenance.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing or Production Engineering.
• Over 10 years of hands‑on managerial experience in metal fabrication, vehicle parts fitment, welding, CKD assembly and related processes.
• Strong ability to interpret engineering drawings and job briefs.
• Proficiency in English (spoken and written) and experience using an ERP system with a production module.
• Knowledge of Kaizen work practices and their implementation.

Required skills

• Metal fabrication (steel & aluminium)
• Welding, CNC‑laser, press‑brake bending
• Spray painting, powder coating, shot blasting
• CAD/CAM, SolidWorks, AutoCAD
• ERP production module usage
• Kaizen continuous‑improvement methodology