Toyota Kenya Limited is the authorized distributor and service provider of Toyota, Yamaha, HINO and Suzuki brands in Kenya. Toyota Kenya Ltd was incorporated in 1997 as a subsidiary by Toyota Tsusho Corporation (TTC) the trading arm of Toyota Motor Corporation

Responsibilities or duties

This role is responsible for managing overall production operations and is responsible for the effective and successful management of labor, productivity, quality control and safety measures as established and set for the Production Department and taking lead roles in workplace safety management/ANZEN. The role also enhances the operational procedure, systems and principles in the areas of information flow and management, business processes, enhanced management reporting and looks for opportunities to expand systems and maintain a safe work environment.

Qualifications or requirements 

A minimum of bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or related field from a recognized institution. Strong understanding of assembly processes, mechanical systems, and automotive manufacturing techniques.

Experience needed

7+ years of relevant experience from a recognized organization.

• Overall responsibility for Production activities in the department
• Ensure that production strategies and processes are aligned to the overall KVMs strategy to meet business objectives and operational needs in terms of price, quality and delivery targets and which enables the company to function and compete effectively in the market
• Evaluate the challenges faced in the production areas and take action to mitigate risks and develop opportunities
• Initiate and develop creative and innovative production processes
• Lead, develop and implement variable cost productivity programs across all areas of responsibility
• Coordinate team activities to optimize cost performance of the plant through capital investment programs, optimizing operating working capital usage and minimizing waste through the development of a continuous improvement culture encompassing lean principles and clear strategic development
• Plan and execute maintenance activity to ensure plant is kept safe and compliant
• Provide design for assembly input at early stages in the new model introduction process, coordinating with and supporting the project / process team to implement new and revised designs and developing effective processes to ensure assembly of new models while maintaining quality, safety and environmental standards and achieving cost targets
• Ensure that Environmental, Health and Safety, manufacturing and quality standards and procedures are adhered to
• Provide leadership to departments under control and coach ,mentor and develop direct reports and manage a high performing team that delivers continuous improvement, added value and cost reductions
• Set department Balanced Scorecard objectives and monitor ongoing progress and performance
• Ensure strong communication between teams under leadership to facilitate exchange of information and in order to implement change and improvements
• Complete regular performance reviews, manage attendance, holidays, disciplinary issues and procedures as appropriate
• Prepare the annual production budget and forecasts and all Capital Expenditure proposals as well as ensuring compliance with legal standards. Manage the budget from identification to completion of projects
• Proactively work with product line management, engineering, process and other departments to incorporate best practices into the production environment
• Report on production activities on a regular basis to the Senior Management team, ensuring accurate and timely reporting of the relevant Key Performance Indicators
• Contribute to new business initiatives and projects and review and communicate the impact on production activities
• Review the use of technological systems that support a more environmentally friendly approach
• Support, comply and ensure complicity with Health & Safety regulations, the Company Handbook, Quality and Environmental standards, and all other Company policies and procedures
• Inspire and motivate the team
• And any other duties as assigned by immediate supervisor

• Strong understanding of assembly processes
• Strong understanding of mechanical systems
• Strong understanding of automotive manufacturing techniques
• Leadership
• Coaching
• Mentoring
• Team Management
• Continuous Improvement
• Lean Principles
• Budget Management
• Risk Management
• Quality Control
• Safety Management
• Environmental Standards
• Communication
• Performance Management
• Problem-solving
• Innovation

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or related field from a recognized institution.
• Strong understanding of assembly processes, mechanical systems, and automotive manufacturing techniques.