Supervisor - Proto Department (Epping Factory) at TFG (The Foschini Group)

Job Description

• We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Prototype Department Supervisor to lead and coordinate all activities within our Prototype Department. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the development of prototype products, managing departmental resources, supervising staff, and ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. To support the design, development, and manufacturing of furniture products by assisting with engineering processes, improving production efficiency, and ensuring quality standards are met. 

Responsibilities

• Supervisor and coordinate the daily operations of the Prototype Department 
• Lead and support a multidisciplinary team, including Draughtsmen, Pattern Makers, Cutters, Frame Makers, Upholsterers, and other prototype personnel. 
• Plan, schedule, and monitor prototype projects to ensure timely completion. 
• Review prototype specifications, drawings, and project requirements. 
• Ensure products meet quality, design, and functionality standards. 
• Coordinate material requirements and liaise with Procurement to ensure timely availability of resources. 
• Monitor departmental costs and assist with project budgeting and cost control. 
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and productivity. 
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, quality, and environmental standards. 
• Provide training, coaching, and performance management for team members. 
• Prepare progress reports and communicate project updates to management and stakeholders. 
• Support product testing, evaluation, and implementation of design modifications. 

Qualifications

• Must have a matric certificate (Grade 12)
• Relevant qualification in Manufacturing, Engineering, Industrial Design, Production Management, or a related field. 
• Minimum 5 years' experience in a prototype, manufacturing, engineering, furniture, or product development environment. 
• At least 2 years' supervisory or team leadership experience. 
• Strong understanding of prototype development and manufacturing processes. 

Skills:

• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications. 
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications. 
• Excellent organizational, planning, and problem-solving skills. 
• Strong leadership and people management skills 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Project planning and communication skills 
• Coordination skills 
• Results driven with a continuous improvement mindset 

Responsibilities: 

• Supervisor and coordinate the daily operations of the Prototype Department 
• Lead and support a multidisciplinary team, including Draughtsmen, Pattern Makers, Cutters, Frame Makers, Upholsterers, and other prototype personnel. 
• Plan, schedule, and monitor prototype projects to ensure timely completion. 
• Review prototype specifications, drawings, and project requirements. 
• Ensure products meet quality, design, and functionality standards. 
• Coordinate material requirements and liaise with Procurement to ensure timely availability of resources. 
• Monitor departmental costs and assist with project budgeting and cost control. 
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and productivity. 
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, quality, and environmental standards. 
• Provide training, coaching, and performance management for team members. 
• Prepare progress reports and communicate project updates to management and stakeholders. 
• Support product testing, evaluation, and implementation of design modifications.