Workshop Director – Luxury Carpentry & Metalworks at Kontak Recruitment

• An executive leadership opportunity to head a luxury carpentry and small-scale metalworks workshop based in Port Alfred. Reporting directly to the Founder, this role carries full responsibility for production, quality, workflow optimisation, and team leadership. The workshop produces premium wood furnishings (majority output) supported by forged metal components for domestic and international markets. The position requires strategic oversight combined with hands-on technical authority to scale production, maintain artisanal standards, manage resources effectively, and drive operational excellence without compromising craftsmanship

Minimum Requirements:

• Diploma/Degree in Woodworking, Carpentry, Furniture Design or recognised trade qualification
• 10+ years’ experience in high-end carpentry, joinery or fine furniture manufacturing
• 5+ years’ workshop or production leadership experience
• Expert knowledge of joinery, furniture construction, wood properties, finishing techniques, and modern woodworking machinery
• Working knowledge of metal fabrication/forge processes
• Ability to interpret technical drawings and prototypes (CAD/CAM advantageous)
• Experience implementing quality control systems and safety standards
• Production scheduling, budgeting and inventory management experience
• Willingness to relocate to Port Alfred

Duties and Responsibilities:
Strategic & Operational Oversight

• Develop and execute production strategies to scale premium output
• Oversee budgeting, resource allocation and capital planning
• Implement and maintain strict quality control systems
• Ensure full compliance with health, safety and regulatory standards

Workshop & Production Management

• Plan and coordinate daily and weekly production schedules
• Optimise workflow, equipment utilisation and fabrication processes
• Manage procurement of premium materials and maintain inventory control
• Oversee machinery maintenance and facility management
• Liaise with Founder, designers, clients and stakeholders on production matters

Technical Leadership

• Provide hands-on expertise in complex joinery and furniture builds
• Supervise integration of metal components into wood production
• Lead prototype development from concept to production readiness
• Conduct stage-gate quality inspections with a zero-defect standard
• Resolve technical and production challenges efficiently

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor and manage artisans, apprentices and metalwork technicians
• Identify training needs and support skills development
• Participate in hiring and workforce planning
• Foster a high-performance culture focused on craftsmanship and accountability