Aspen has a proud heritage dating back more than 160 years and is committed to sustaining life and promoting healthcare through increasing access to its high quality affordable medicines and products. Aspen has a market capitalisation of approximately US$10 billion, is the largest pharmaceutical company listed on the JSE Limited (share code: APN) and rank...
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Overview
- Monitor, maintain and repair equipment and machinery adhering to GMP and safety requirements. Plan and implement preventative and corrective maintenance.
- Ensure service equipment operates at optimal efficiency to meet planned levels of production. Innovate and apply process engineering techniques to ensure optimal functionality of production equipment and processes.
Responsibilities
Planning and Operational Support
- Act as a technical/subject matter resource
- Facilitate implementation of current processes
- Identify gaps in current policies and procedures.
- Provide input into changes or improvements to processes, tools and techniques.
- Train staff on SOPs and maintenance of equipment/ machinery
Production Facility Maintenance
- Plan technical requirements and maintenance tasks according to production requirements to meet Production Plan
- Review and update maintenance schedules
- Perform planned preventative maintenance and inspections according to maintenance plan, job cards, and SOPs.
- Repair breakdowns according to best practice, job cards and SOPs
- Troubleshoot machine breakdowns to identify cause of breakdowns.
- Perform root cause analysis to identify cause of machine failures and quality deficiencies to minimise machine downtime.
- Implement corrective actions to minimise machine downtime.
- Isolate, remove and replace defective components.
- Complete and submit work requisitions; Create and close job cards.
- Maintain workshop, tools and assets to standards.
- Determine and request required parts, materials and special equipment to maintain machines/ equipment
- Install, test and validate machine operating efficiency
Engineering
- Maintain calibration of machines according to SOPs and manuals, ensure machine safe guards are in place
- Identify and correct equipment deviations to avoid quality deficiencies; Reduce outsourced spending of repairs
- Inspect service equipment and report status to Team Leader
- Rectify operational problems according to SOP
- Communicate process and equipment deviations to management
- Provide input into asset life cycle optimisation and replacement
- Assist production staff with change-overs
Reporting and record-keeping
- Provide standard record keeping and reporting functionality for area of work
- Accountability & Decision Rights
Responsible for:
- Apply advanced competencies and skills, comprehensive knowledge of technical, quality and regulatory standards
- Independently resolve issues and complex matters
- Escalate highly complex matters
Decisions relating to:
- Prioritisation and execution of own responsibilities within established policies, practices and guidelines, as well as established quality and safety checks
- Correction and/ or containment of errors of significant impact
Deliverables:
- Availability, reliability and functioning of production systems maintained
- Production downtime minimised and maintained at target levels
- Planned preventative maintenance carried out according to schedule, job cards and SOP at 98%
- Machines/ equipment repaired and maintained according to job cards and SOP
- Cause of machine/ equipment failures identified and CAPA plans implemented to address defects and quality deficiencies
- Defective machines/ equipment removed to minimise downtime
- Work requisitions completed, updated and maintained to SOPs
- Machines/ equipment validated for operation
- Workshop tools and assets maintained to standard
- Change-overs and asset change-over capability is to standard
- Assets operate at design utility consumption
- Changes implemented to improve utility consumption
- Documentation updated, maintained and filed according to SOP, and retrievable to support query resolution
- Cost savings and continuous improvements achieved
Innovation, creativity & problem solving:
- Demonstrate initiative, creativity, problem-solving skills and reliability
- Work requires some problem resolution to non-standard and unique technical, operational and business challenges
- Demonstrate original and resourceful approaches to work situations including the resolution of complex challenges
- Independently resolve most issues and complex matters, escalating highly complex matters
Requirements
Background/experience:
- Trade Tested Millwright, Electrician, Automation/Instrumentation Artisan with 3 to 5 years’ post apprenticeship experience as Artisan/Technician.
- Pharmaceutical Technician experience/Certificate will be an advantage
- Manufacturing/FMCG experience essential.
- Experience in operation and maintenance of Pharmaceutical manufacturing/ packaging systems will be advantageous.
- Experience working on highly automated lines.
Specific job skills:
- Comprehensive knowledge of pharmaceutical manufacturing, standards and compliance requirements.
- Understanding of technical drawings / use of equipment manuals, P&ID and Flow Charts
- Strong ability for fault-finding and root cause analysis.
- Ability to interpret and implement policies, processes and objectives
- Physically capable of lifting/ moving heavy equipment.
- Comprehensive knowledge of PLC and control systems.
- Able to do report writing.
Competencies:
- Interrogating Information
- Pragmatic Action
- Maintaining Accuracy
- Be able to work in a controlled environment for long period of time.
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Overview
The role of a Warehouse Manager is a pivotal position responsible for orchestrating and optimizing the entire warehouse ecosystem. At its core, the job purpose is to ensure the seamless and efficient functioning of warehouse operations, meeting the needs and expectations of various stakeholders. This multifaceted role involves strategic planning, where the Warehouse Manager collaborates with key stakeholders to develop objectives and processes that align with the overall organizational goals. From overseeing teams to managing infrastructure and systems, the Warehouse Manager acts as the linchpin in driving the warehouse towards operational excellence.
Central to the Warehouse Manager's mission is compliance and quality assurance. This involves maintaining a safe work environment, ensuring accurate inventory control, managing product shelf-life, and adhering to industry standards such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Good Distribution Practices (GDP). The Warehouse Manager plays a critical role in fostering a culture of continuous improvement, not only in operational processes but also in the development and growth of the warehouse team.
Another key aspect of the job purpose revolves around effective team leadership. The Warehouse Manager follows Human Capital procedures to manage staffing, schedules, and performance metrics. This includes utilizing performance management tools, providing guidance, and monitoring the daily activities of the warehouse staff. Moreover, the Warehouse Manager actively contributes to the financial aspect of warehouse operations by participating in budget development and overseeing projects that align with the warehouse's strategic objectives.
In essence, the Warehouse Manager serves as the chief architect of the warehouse's success story, navigating through diverse responsibilities to ensure operational efficiency, compliance, team development, and strategic alignment with organizational objectives. The ultimate goal is to create a high-performance warehouse that not only meets but exceeds the evolving needs of stakeholders.
Responsibilities
Align the Warehouse to Aspen’s strategy
- Collaborate with executive leadership to develop long-term warehouse strategies aligned with organizational objectives
- Develop processes and communications for the business indicating each stakeholder’s requirements and expectations (SLA’s where required)
- Continuously evaluate and refine warehouse processes and systems to enhance efficiency and effectiveness
- Maintain a safe and healthy work environment by establishing, following, and enforcing standards and procedures and complying with legal regulations (GMP/ GWP aligned standards)
- Ensure staff execute processes and procedures compliance as prescribed by the company. Inspect and ensure completed documentation for accuracy and completeness
Manage Warehouse staff and drive shift performance against key metrics, focussing on SHE, QSMR, Finance, Governance, Customer service
- Implement and oversee safety protocols across all shifts and conduct regular safety training sessions for the warehouse team
- Manage expired stock in all warehouses – identify stock and ensure all measures in place to minimise write-offs, ensure approval for write off
- Monitor key SHE and QSMR metrics, such as incident rates and compliance with safety and GMP procedures
- Ensure adherence to quality standards by implementing quality checks in product handling processes
- Optimize workflows to achieve service excellence, focusing on on-time deliveries and maintaining optimal stock levels
- Actively contribute to the financial health of the warehouse by aligning operations with budgetary goals and identifying cost-saving opportunities
- Oversee compliance with company policies, industry regulations, and legal requirements to ensure effective governance
- Ensure compliance and audit readiness in all warehouses
- Do audit responses post audits
- Proactively address customer inquiries or concerns to maintain a positive customer experience
- Empower subordinates through training, information sharing, coaching, feedback, appraisals, and delegation, to ensure the development of people, teams, and organisational capabilities
- Develop and communicate clear performance metrics aligned with organizational goals for each shift
- Set productivity targets, accuracy benchmarks, and safety standards
- Utilize performance management tools to track and evaluate team performance
- Make real-time adjustments to staffing levels, resource allocation, and operational strategies based on performance data
Manage Warehouse teams in respect of infrastructure, systems, reporting and analytics platforms to ensure efficiencies and optimisation for effective service delivery
- Oversee the maintenance and optimization of warehouse infrastructure to ensure seamless operations
- Implement strategies for space utilization, layout efficiency, and equipment functionality
- Address and resolve any infrastructure-related issues to minimize disruptions
- Manage and optimize warehouse management systems (WMS) for efficient order processing
- Regularly assess and update technology tools to keep pace with industry advancements
- Ensure integration and compatibility of systems for streamlined workflows
- Implement and manage reporting and analytics platforms for real-time visibility into warehouse performance
- Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics for monitoring team and warehouse efficiency
- Utilize analytics tools to identify trends, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement
- Provide training to teams on reporting tools for enhanced data-driven decision-making
- Strategize and implement processes to enhance overall operational efficiency
- Utilize analytics data to identify opportunities for optimization and cost reduction
- Align infrastructure, systems, and analytics with the goal of ensuring effective service delivery
- Foster a culture of efficiency and optimization among warehouse teams
Manage Warehouse teams with a focus on Inventory Accuracy, Stock Management, and Production Efficiency
- Implement stringent processes to ensure precise tracking of inventory levels
- Regularly conduct cycle counts and audits to validate physical inventory against system records
- Investigate and rectify discrepancies promptly to maintain high levels of accuracy
- Collaborate with teams to develop and adhere to best practices for inventory control
- Develop and execute stock management strategies to optimize space utilization
- Implement ABC analysis to prioritize stock items based on importance and turnover
- Ensure proper storage conditions, such as temperature and humidity, for different types of stock
- Implement just-in-time inventory practices to minimize holding costs and improve cash flow
- Collaborate with production teams to understand their requirements and align warehouse operations accordingly
- Develop efficient workflows and communication channels between warehouse and production units
- Implement lean manufacturing principles to reduce waste and enhance overall production efficiency
- Utilize real-time analytics to identify and address bottlenecks in production processes
- Encourage feedback from team members to identify areas for enhancement in inventory accuracy and stock management
- Implement technology-driven solutions, such as RFID or barcode systems, to enhance inventory tracking and reduce errors
Requirements
Skills Required
Background/experience
- Bachelor's degree in Logistics or similar degree
- SAPICS Basics of Stores and Stock control Programme
- 7 – 15 years’ experience in warehousing and logistics
- Proven experience in a leadership role with oversight of multiple staff
Specific job skills
- Proven leadership
- Attention to Detail and Organizational skill
- Warehouse Operations Expertise
- Strong Industrial Relations knowledge
- Compliance and Quality Assurance
- Reporting metrics development and analytics
- Strong problem-solving techniques
- Risk Management
- Flexible and Adaptive to change.
- Influencing and conflict resolution skills
- Customer Services and interpersonal relationship skills
- Technology Proficiency
- Project management
- Good, solid Presentation skills
Skills and attributes
- SAP EWM and IM proficiency
- A sound knowledge of relevant quality working standards & safe working procedures as well as the requirements of the Health and Safety legislation (OHS Act/ISO standards), also including GWP and / GMP, GDP and safe work practices
- Proficient in Microsoft Office suite (incl. excel), warehouse management systems, and database systems
- Must communicate effectively (written and verbal) to manage and meet both internal and external customer expectations
- Effective Root Cause Analysis, problem solving and driving Corrective and Preventative measures
Competencies
- Performance driven
- Create the future
- Accountability / Ownership
- Develop talent, teamwork
- Communicates effectively
- Lead and influence others
- Continuously grow and develop
- Contribute special expertise
- Take action with integrity
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Description
- Monitor manufacturing compliance to GMP and statutory requirements.
- Monitor adherence to guidelines, procedures, and document controls.
- Deliver expected productivity targets as per business requirements.
- Related administrative tasks.
- Serve as back up to Team Leader on shift.
Requirements
Planning and Procedures
- Plan and prioritize daily, weekly, and monthly activities.
- Determine, request, and use resources/ assets optimally.
Inspections and Verifications
- Verify schedule 5 products.
- Verify certified clean status of rooms and equipment.
- Verify, review, and approve verification of measuring equipment performance, calibrations, and sampling, and dispensing of materials.
Line & Production processing
- Perform, review, and approve line sign-on’s, closures and clearance authorizations.
- Perform, review, and approve batch reconciliations to product specifications and quality.
- Ensure production process adherence to standards and specifications.
Process and system improvements
- Manage, review, and approve change control programs and deviations/ concessions comply to standards and specifications.
- Manage and resolve customer complaints.
- Optimize processes and identify gaps in policies/ procedures.
- Drive CAPA investigations in area of focus.
Compliance & Auditing
- Perform and review shift GMP checks, environmental checks, and agent expiry dates, and ensure continued compliance.
- Verify good document practice as per SOP and regulation.
- Verify the identity of bulk product and printed packaging materials, and conduct intermix checks to assess uniformity.
- Verify IPCs are in line with product quality and specifications.
- Review and approve preliminary batch records.
- Audit logbooks and systems.
Troubleshooting
- Investigate deviations and concessions and assess risk.
- Raise deviations and implement corrective action.
- Raise maintenance notifications as and when required.
Training and technical expertise
- Train new Pharmacists and PMAs on SOPs in transition period
- Identify refresher or awareness training needs.
Administration & Record keeping
- Complete batch records and labels
- Complete deviation forms as required.
- Query documents and sign off declarations.
- Perform and verify calculations in BMR.
- Maintain and update records and systems as required.
- Retrieve supporting documentation and records to facilitate and support query resolution.
Skills Required
Background/experience
- Minimum of bachelor’s degree preferred, ideally in Pharmacy.
- 1-3 years’ related work experience
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing experience
- Registration with Pharmacy Council
Specific job skills
- Comprehensive knowledge of pharmaceutical manufacturing, standards, and compliance requirements
- Ability to interpret and implement policies, processes, and objectives.
Competencies
- Information gathering
- Interrogating information
- Meeting deadlines
- Finalizing output
- Taking action
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