Open Roles at Willowton Group

Background to the Company 

Willowton Group has been in operation since 1970 and has grown to become one of Africa’s leading edible oil processors, as well as one of the leading competitors in the South African FMCG market. 

The group operates across South Africa with manufacturing facilities in Pietermaritzburg, Johannesburg, and Cape Town. Willowton Group has recently completed expanding its manufacturing operations into Zambia and Zimbabwe, with aspirations to further extend its reach to customers throughout Africa. 

A wide range of products encompasses edible oils, rice, margarines and spreads, beauty, toilet and laundry soaps, candles, baking and industrial fats. Well-known brands include, amongst others, Sunfoil, Sunshine D, D’lite, Crown, WoodenSpoon, and Allsome rice. 

Key to the group’s success are the sound foundations of service excellence, continued investment in technology and human resources and the hands-on involvement of the directors in the day-to-day running of the business. 

By combining flexibility and vision with a sound business approach, the company is set to strengthen its position in the FMCG market even further, now and into the future.

Principal Accountabilities

•  Assist the Quality Assurance Manager in developing and managing the quality management system in line with FSSC 22000.
•  Assist the Quality Assurance Manager in developing, implementing, and reviewing policies and procedures in support of a quality management system. 
•  Assist in maintaining effective internal control systems that ensure compliance with standards, policies, and procedures. 
•  Provide support to various departments to comply with all standard operating procedures and processes.
•  Log all complaints on the system and ensure that required reports are available for analysis. 
•  Conduct Root Cause Analysis, Corrective and Preventive action for internal customers.
•  Assist in creating an environment of compliance, continuous improvement, and sustainability in support of internal processes 
•  Compile PIF (product information files) for internal customers Prepare audits checklists in advance and lead a process approach based internal audits. 
•  Ensure that internal audits and corrective actions are completed in a timely manner.
•  Prepare and issue audit reports inclusive of findings Serve as Document Controller, Lead Auditor, and Auditor Trainer for the company. 
•  Accountable for the assurance and maintenance of controlled documents for the site, to ensure correct implementation, access, and upkeep of documents in line with electronic document management system. 
•  Assist with periodic reviews and updates of work instructions. 
•  Assist in maintaining and controlling work instructions and forms, develop and coordinate processes as necessary. 
•  Assist other departments with quality issues, concerns, or documentation.
•  Provide job-related training and ensure that all training is documented. 
•  Liaise with external calibration service providers.  Assist with reporting and analysis of annual Document Review metrics. 
•  Assist with inhouse verifications for all instruments used in factory.

Desired Qualifications

•  ND in Food technology, biotechnology preferred 
•  100% efficiency on Microsoft word and excel is a requirement.
•  FSSC 22000 Quality management system qualification is an advantage.
•  Any external food safety training would be an advantage.
•  Minimum of 2 years’ experience in a quality assurance environment is a requirement.
•  Experience working in the food industry, manufacturing, or related industry.

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Background to the Company 

Willowton Group has been in operation since 1970 and has grown to become one of Africa’s leading edible oil processors, as well as one of the leading competitors in the South Africa's FMCG market.
The group operates across South Africa with manufacturing facilities in Pietermaritzburg, Johannesburg, and Cape Town. Willowton Group has recently completed expanding its manufacturing operations into Zambia and Zimbabwe, with aspirations to further extend its reach to customers throughout Africa.
A wide range of products encompasses edible oils, rice, margarines and spreads, beauty, toilet and laundry soaps, candles, baking and industrial fats. Well-known brands include, amongst others, Sunfoil, Sunshine D, D’lite, Crown, WoodenSpoon, and Allsome rice.
Key to the group’s success are the sound foundations of service excellence, continued investment in technology and human resources and the hands-on involvement of the directors in the day-to-day running of the business.

By combining flexibility and vision with a sound business approach, the company is set to strengthen its position in the FMCG market even further, now and into the future.  

Principal Accountabilities

•  Supervising and coordinating the activities of bottling line operators to ensure smooth and efficient operation of the bottling line.
•  Overseeing the setup, operation, and maintenance of bottling equipment, including fillers, cappers, labellers, and conveyors.
•  Monitoring production schedules and ensuring that production targets are met while maintaining quality standards.
•  Conducting regular inspections of equipment and machinery to identify any issues or maintenance needs, and coordinating repairs as necessary.
•  Enforcing safety procedures and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations to create a safe working environment for all employees.
•  Training and developing bottling line operators to improve their skills and performance, and providing ongoing guidance and support.
•  Implementing quality control measures to ensure that products meet company standards and customer requirements.
•  Managing inventory levels of packaging materials, such as bottles, caps, labels, and cartons, and coordinating replenishment orders as needed.
•  Monitoring production costs and identifying opportunities to reduce waste and improve efficiency.
•  Collaborating with other departments, such as production planning, maintenance, and quality assurance, to optimize overall production processes.
•  Maintaining accurate production records and reports, including production volumes, downtime, and quality control data.
•  Resolving any issues or disputes that may arise during the bottling process, and escalating more complex issues to management as needed.
•  Implementing continuous improvement initiatives to enhance bottling processes and increase productivity.
•  Participating in the development and implementation of new bottling technologies or equipment upgrades.
•  Assisting with the development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions for bottling operations.  

Desired Qualifications

•  A tertiary qualification with a production management diploma would be acceptable.
•  A diploma in packaging technology would be advantages.
•  Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in production management in a bottling or manufacturing environment.
•  Strong technical knowledge of bottling equipment and processes, including fillers, cappers, labellers, and conveyors.
•  Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate and coach a team.
•  Solid understanding of health and safety regulations and practices, with a commitment to creating a safe work environment.
•  Ability to analyse production data and identify opportunities for process improvements.
•  Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure.
•  Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.

go to method of application »

Background to the Company 

Willowton Group has been in operation since 1970 and has grown to become one of Africa’s leading edible oil processors, as well as one of the leading competitors in the South African FMCG market.

The group operates across South Africa with manufacturing facilities in Pietermaritzburg, Johannesburg, and Cape Town. Willowton Group has recently completed expanding its manufacturing operations into Zambia and Zimbabwe, with aspirations to further extend its reach to customers throughout Africa.

A wide range of products encompasses edible oils, rice, margarines and spreads, beauty, toilet and laundry soaps, candles, baking and industrial fats. Well-known brands include, amongst others, Sunfoil, Sunshine D, D’lite, Crown, WoodenSpoon, and Allsome rice.

Key to the group’s success are the sound foundations of service excellence, continued investment in technology and human resources and the hands-on involvement of the directors in the day-to-day running of the business.

By combining flexibility and vision with a sound business approach, the company is set to strengthen its position in the FMCG market even further, now and into the future.  

Principal Accountabilities

•  Overseeing all aspects of the bottling operations, including production scheduling, equipment maintenance, quality control, and inventory management.
•  Developing and implementing production plans to meet customer demand while optimizing efficiency and minimizing downtime.
•  Managing a team of bottling supervisors, line operators, and support staff, and providing leadership, guidance, and support to ensure high levels of performance and morale.
•  Ensuring that bottling equipment is properly maintained and serviced to minimize breakdowns and downtime, and coordinating repairs as necessary.
•  Implementing and enforcing standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols to ensure compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
•  Monitoring production processes and quality control measures to ensure that products meet established standards and specifications.
•  Analysing production data and identifying opportunities for process improvements, cost savings, and efficiency gains.
•  Managing inventory levels of packaging materials, chemicals, and other supplies, and coordinating replenishment orders as needed.
•  Collaborating with other departments, such as production planning, maintenance, quality assurance, and logistics, to optimize overall production processes and resolve any issues or challenges.
•  Developing and implementing training programs for bottling staff to enhance their skills and knowledge and improve overall performance.
•  Managing budgetary and financial aspects of the bottling operations, including cost control, budget forecasting, and variance analysis.
•  Ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and sustainability initiatives related to bottling operations.
•  Serving as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, including suppliers, customers, and regulatory agencies, regarding bottling operations.   

Desired Qualifications

• A tertiary qualification with a production management diploma would be acceptable.
•  A diploma in packaging technology would be advantages.
•  Minimum of 5-10 years of experience in a Production management role in a bottling or manufacturing environment, with a strong track record of success.
•  Extensive knowledge of bottling processes, equipment, and technologies, including fillers, cappers, labelers, and conveyors.
•  Proven leadership abilities, with the ability to motivate and inspire a team to achieve results.
•  Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze complex issues and develop effective solutions.
•  Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with employees at all levels of the organization.
•  Knowledge of health and safety regulations, quality standards, and environmental requirements relevant to bottling operations.