Head of Department: Plant at Power Construction (Pty) Ltd

• We are seeking an experienced and strategic leader to head our Plant and Mechanical Workshops Department. The successful candidate will be responsible for providing strategic leadership, operational oversight and continuous improvement across all plant, equipment, workshop and stores operations. This includes ensuring that all plant assets are optimally maintained, legally compliant, cost-effective and aligned with project and business objectives.
• The HOD will play a pivotal role in driving innovation, improving operational performance, managing people and resources and fostering a culture of safety, compliance and excellence.

Main Responsibilities:

• Lead the strategic management of all plant, equipment, workshops and stores operations in alignment with company goals.
• Oversee the maintenance, operation and optimisation of all plant and mechanical equipment, ensuring maximum uptime and efficiency.
• Develop and implement asset management, lifecycle planning and replacement strategies for all plant and equipment.
• Ensure legal and statutory compliance across plant operations, including SHEQ, employment and industry-specific regulations.
• Manage plant budgets, monitor expenditure and identify cost-saving and efficiency opportunities.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, process optimisations and adoption of new technologies.
• Lead, mentor and develop a high-performing team, fostering a culture of accountability, inclusion and professional growth.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, service providers and industry stakeholders.
• Oversee procurement, supply chain risk management and supplier performance.
• Ensure effective governance, risk management and compliance with company policies and external requirements.
• Champion organizational change, innovation and continuous learning across the department.

Minimum Requirements:

• Education: Mechanical Qualification or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum 20-25 years’ extensive experience in maintenance management, with a proven track record of successful leadership in a similar capacity within an industrial, manufacturing or construction environment.

Knowledge and Skills:

• In-depth understanding of construction equipment and processes.
• Extensive knowledge on batching plant - dry and wet (Liebherr, Meka and Karoo).
• Extensive knowledge on crushing plant, processes and materials (Metso, Bell and Finlay).
• Extensive knowledge on specialised road building equipment - pavers, milling machines, feeders and chip spreaders (Vogele, Wirtgen and Ednyre and Dynapac).
• Extensive knowledge on earth moving equipment (Caterpillar and Volvo).
• Extensive knowledge with trucks (UD and MAN).
• Competent in batching programmes and systems.
• Competent in electrical and PLC systems.
• Strong knowledge of industry trends, market dynamics and the South African construction landscape.
• Proven ability in strategic thinking, financial management and data-driven decision-making.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency in risk assessment, legal compliance and corporate governance.
• Ability to integrate technological innovations and analytics into plant operations.
• Computer literate.

Personal Attributes:

• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans.
• Team player, with strong technical background, with the ability to guide and motivate their team.
• Inspirational leader who fosters collaboration, inclusion and performance excellence.
• Adaptable and innovative, with strong problem-solving skills and high resilience when working under pressure.
• High integrity, ethical conduct and commitment to confidentiality.
• Strong time management, accountability and results-oriented mindset.