Blessward Chinhoi
Factory Manager
Mafambisse
Summary
Reliable Factory Manager offering 23-year background overseeing and monitoring workers and equipment and carrying out production-strategy decisions. Polished in creating and enforcing quality control standards and implementing machine maintenance standard operating procedures. Dedicated and highly motivated professional possessing 'can do' attitude and sound knowledge of industry-specific factory equipment.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
Work History
Factory Manager
Tongaat Hulett Sugar
08.2023 - Current
- Collaborated with sales and marketing teams to align production goals with market demands, increasing revenue potential.
- Reduced machine downtime through regular preventive maintenance and timely repairs.
- Trained and developed staff members, enhancing overall workforce competency and productivity levels.
- Conducted root cause analyses of production issues to identify areas requiring corrective action or continuous improvement efforts.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors for cost-effective procurement of raw materials, parts, and services essential to factory operations.
- Developed and maintained a safe working environment by enforcing strict safety policies and procedures.
- Oversaw plant expansions and renovations, ensuring seamless integration of new equipment and processes into existing operations.
- Facilitated open communication between all factory departments, leading to increased collaboration and more efficient problemsolving.
- Streamlined inventory management, resulting in reduced waste and improved cost control.
- Reviewed energy consumption patterns within the facility, implementing strategies for conserving resources while maintaining high output levels.
- Boosted employee morale by fostering a positive work culture, promoting open communication, and recognizing outstanding performance.
- Implemented quality assurance measures that resulted in consistently meeting or exceeding customer expectations.
- Managed budgets and resources effectively, ensuring optimal utilization of financial assets within the facility.
- Led cross-functional teams to identify areas for improvement, driving continuous process enhancements within the facility.
- Enhanced factory efficiency by implementing lean manufacturing principles and optimizing production processes.
- Coordinated with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of raw materials, reducing lead times for production orders.
- Achieved on-time delivery of products by closely monitoring production schedules and coordinating with various departments.
- Evaluated equipment requirements based on capacity needs, making informed decisions about capital investments in new machinery or upgrades.
- Created and delivered manufacturing labor cost and price input for customer quote reviews.
- Drove productivity and financial performance and managed achievement of corporate and factory level metric goals.
- Communicated factory operational needs, objectives and performance standards with senior management and earned full upper management support.
- Kept abreast of current environmental requirements of state and federal environmental protection agencies and mobilized safe and responsible workplace.
- Spearheaded product and process quality initiatives with full compliance to internal, industry and customer quality standards.
- Delivered factory-level communications and tactical direction and drove achievement of quality, delivery, productivity and financial performance goals and objectives.
- Analyzed financial reports, assessed factory productivity and devised plans of action to build productive plant operations.
- Led productive, motivated and loyal manufacturing team and generated factory-wide customer focus and pride in workmanship.
- Coordinated with other departments to align production with customer requirements.
- Managed personnel by implementing company policies, procedures, work rules, and disciplinary action.
- Orchestrated and maintained vibrant continuous improvement and lean manufacturing culture within factory.
- Planned operations to meet established schedules, factoring in order demands and business forecasts.
- Utilized data analysis tools to identify and resolve production issues.
- Created and oversaw production schedules and adjusted as needed to meet deadlines.
- Analyzed production data and prepared reports for senior management.
- Researched latest industry trends and technologies, boosting knowledge and understanding of industrial production.
- Evaluated employee performance and provided feedback and training as needed.
- Trained in and implemented emergency response procedures to protect team members and property.
- Enforced health and safety protocols to promote safe working environment.
- Devised and administered cost control initiatives saving $500 000.
- Scrutinized production output and identified areas for improvement.
- Oversaw routine maintenance programs and scheduled service to keep equipment functioning at peak levels.
- Monitored inventory levels and restocking schedules to avoid production delays from unavailable materials.
Engineering Manager
Tongaat Hullet Sugar
10.2016 - 07.2023
- Manage the CMS and ensure correct implementation and compliance
- Compile lenders reports and meet agreed operational commitments
- Support organizational cash flow management
- Initiate cost reduction measures to support business bottom line – sustainable profitability
- Drive culture change initiatives to be a more value-based culture system within the organization
- Capability development through talent and succession management systems
- Identified areas of improvement in existing systems, providing recommendations that resulted in significant cost savings over time.
- Enhanced overall team productivity with continuous training and mentoring of junior engineers.
- Managed risk assessments during project planning phases, proactively mitigating potential issues before they arose during execution stages.
- Developed safety protocols to minimize accidents, fostering a safer working environment for all employees.
- Reviewed technical documentation for accuracy, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.
- Spearheaded efforts to acquire necessary certifications for company products entering new markets or industries successfully expanding company reach globally.
- Championed company-wide initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact by implementing sustainable practices within the engineering department.
- Evaluated vendor proposals to ensure high-quality materials were sourced at competitive prices while maintaining strong relationships with suppliers.
- Improved engineering processes by streamlining workflows and implementing efficient project management techniques.
- Designed innovative engineering solutions, leading to patents and industry recognition.
- Fostered a culture of innovation and continuous improvement by encouraging the sharing of ideas, leading to increased creativity and problem-solving capabilities within the team.
- Optimized resource allocation, effectively managing budgets and manpower for multiple simultaneous projects.
- Streamlined communication between departments by establishing regular meetings, improving collaboration on complex projects.
- Increased efficiency through the automation of manual processes, saving time and resources on project completion.
- Reduced production downtime by developing effective maintenance schedules and procedures for equipment upkeep.
- Implemented quality control measures to reduce errors, resulting in increased customer satisfaction and repeat business.
- Evaluated existing procedures and made proactive adjustments to meet changing demands.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors and suppliers to keep material costs within set budgets.
- Presented project information and status updates to customers and fielded concerns.
Senior Plant Engineer
Tongaat Hullets Sugar
10.2013 - 06.2016
- Reviewed regular inspection reports for assessing equipment health status over time.
- Spearheaded automation projects, integrating advanced technologies into plant operations for enhanced efficiency.
- Managed capital projects, ensuring successful completion while adhering to cost, scope, and quality requirements.
- Mentored junior engineers, fostering a culture of professional development and knowledge sharing.
- Enhanced production efficiency by redesigning plant layouts and streamlining workflows.
- Reduced equipment downtime with proactive maintenance planning and root cause analysis.
- Utilized data-driven approaches for identifying areas of inefficiency within the plant''s operation processes.
- Optimized plant performance by implementing innovative engineering solutions and process improvements.
- Led safety training sessions for employees across various departments.
- Developed new operating procedures, resulting in increased safety and productivity levels.
- Conducted energy audits to identify opportunities for reducing power consumption and costs.
- Implemented continuous improvement initiatives, driving sustainable gains in operational effectiveness.
- Liaised with regulatory authorities during periodic inspections or audits.
- Coordinated with vendors and suppliers to procure necessary components at the most competitive prices while maintaining product quality.
- Participated in risk assessment exercises aimed at minimizing potential hazards within the facility.
- Influenced change management processes, facilitating smooth transitions during major organizational shifts.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to achieve project objectives on time and within budget constraints.
- Championed environmental compliance efforts by implementing waste reduction strategies and pollution prevention measures as per regulations.
- Provided technical expertise during equipment procurement activities, ensuring compatibility with existing systems and future growth potential.
- Designed and enforced best-practice methodologies.
- Remained abreast of new and emerging industry regulations and guidelines for plant operations.
- Audited and trained maintenance personnel to verify presence of necessary skills and competencies.
- Prepared performance appraisals of plan personnel, highlighting exceptional performances and illustrating remedial requirements.
- Drafted preventive maintenance schedules around avoiding service disruptions and equipment breakdowns.
- Served as point of contact during plant emergencies, overseeing disaster recovery and expediting restoration efforts.
- Developed and implemented process improvements to reduce costs and increase efficiency in industrial production.
- Conducted evaluations of equipment and machinery to verify optimal performance and efficiency.
- Analyzed data to identify trends in production and maintenance costs and developed strategies to reduce expenses.
- Wrote safety procedures for industrial facilities, enforcing or exceeding industry standards.
- Evaluated proposed project investments by conducting cost-benefit analyses.
- Developed and deployed industrial automation systems, increasing efficiency and reduce costs.
- Reduced downtime and increased production capacity with strong maintenance plans.
Plant Engineer
Tongaat Hullet Sugar
10.2010 - 10.2013
- Designed custom tools or fixtures when required, enhancing worker safety and job efficiency.
- Improved plant layout design to maximize space utilization and increase overall productivity.
- Implemented energy-saving measures, resulting in reduced operational costs without compromising productivity.
- Reduced downtime for maintenance through proactive inspection and scheduling of repairs.
- Managed plant projects from conception to completion, adhering to strict deadlines and budgets.
- Streamlined workflow processes through effective communication with team members at all levels of the organization.
- Enhanced plant efficiency by implementing process improvements and equipment upgrades.
- Coordinated with outside contractors for specialized services, ensuring timely completion of tasks within budget constraints.
- Ensured regulatory compliance by staying up-to-date with industry guidelines and integrating them into plant operations as needed.
- Mentored junior staff members on industry best practices, promoting continuous learning within the engineering team.
- Conducted regular safety audits, ensuring a safe working environment for all personnel.
- Developed training programs for junior engineers and technicians, fostering a skilled workforce capable of handling complex tasks independently.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify areas for improvement and implement effective solutions.
- Led root cause analysis efforts to identify recurring problems and develop long-term solutions.
- Optimized production rates by analyzing equipment performance and implementing necessary adjustments.
- Assisted in procurement strategies by providing input on vendor selection based on cost analysis and performance metrics.
- Evaluated new technology options for potential integration into existing processes, increasing efficiency while maintaining quality standards.
- Developed preventive maintenance programs, reducing equipment failures and increasing overall reliability.
- Provided technical support to the production team, troubleshooting issues and offering swift resolutions.
- Drafted preventive maintenance schedules around avoiding service disruptions and equipment breakdowns.
- Prepared performance appraisals of plan personnel, highlighting exceptional performances and illustrating remedial requirements.
- Organized and managed maintenance staff to fulfill requirements via scheduling and delegation.
- Performed concurrent design and manufacturing engineering and other functions to reduce time required to bring product to market.
- Swapped out materials and finishes in product line to alleviate performance issues and reduce corrosion.
- Mitigated supplier risk through investigation and sourcing of qualified suppliers and on-site evaluations of processes and capacities.
- Resolved technical and quality issues by collaborating with customer, manufacturing, quality assurance, vendors and supplier personnel.
Projects Superintendent
Norilsk Nickel (Tati Nickel Mine)
03.2004 - 09.2010
- Fostered strong relationships with clients through excellent customer service skills and responsiveness during all phases of the construction process.
- Reduced construction timeframes for numerous projects through effective scheduling and resource allocation.
- Managed budgets and financial resources to ensure cost-effective execution of construction projects.
- Enhanced safety measures on job sites, resulting in fewer accidents and a safer work environment.
- Collaborated closely with architects, engineers, and other professionals to deliver high-quality results on time and within budget.
- Provided guidance and leadership to project teams, fostering a positive work environment that encouraged collaboration and professional growth.
- Established transparent communication channels between stakeholders, ensuring timely updates on project progress and milestones achieved.
- Spearheaded the development of innovative solutions to overcome complex construction challenges.
- Developed detailed project scopes, schedules, budgets, and performance metrics to guide successful completion of assigned projects.
- Improved project efficiency by streamlining communication between team members and stakeholders.
- Coordinated subcontractor activities for seamless integration into ongoing project timelines.
- Implemented risk management strategies to anticipate potential problems and develop contingency plans as needed.
- Led meetings with clients, consultants, contractors, vendors, and internal staff to facilitate smooth coordination of tasks across multiple disciplines.
- Ensured compliance with industry regulations and standards for all completed projects.
- Compiled daily field report, detailing all key activities and outlining project progress for stakeholders.
- Coordinated planning, scheduling and successful execution of multiple large-scale construction projects.
- Participated in project budget and cost control measures, tracking progress and making necessary financial adjustments to meet company goals.
- Worked with inspectors, workers and unions, to conduct weekly status updates.
- Coordinated power equipment use and maintenance to create safe working environment, limit accidents, and prevent damages.
- Conducted walk-throughs with clients prior to project close, completing punchlists and answering all questions.
- Oversaw selection, procurement and allocation of building materials and equipment.
- Coordinated on-site construction shutdowns, testing and inspections, reporting details and concerns to designated team supervisors.
- Led weekly production and operations contractor meetings, facilitating stronger communication, and helping to resolve critical issues.
- Used computer software to design construction plans and perform calculations.
- Coordinated with site personnel, clients and local government officials to achieve on-time project delivery.
- Negotiated labor contracts with general contractors and subcontractors.
- Developed and implemented construction plans according to client specifications and expectations.
- Assisted in organizing and overseeing assignments to drive operational excellence.
- Tracked project costs and other financial metrics to maximize profitability.
- Conducted critical pre-installation conferences with general contractors, subcontractors, consultants, and manufacturer's representatives.
- Established and maintained relationships with vendors to source affordable and high quality materials and equipment for construction projects.
Electrical & Instruments Foreman
Mimosa Mining Company
09.2002 - 02.2004
- Enhanced equipment efficiency by conducting routine maintenance and troubleshooting on electrical systems.
- Supported continuous improvement initiatives within the organization by identifying areas for potential cost savings or process improvements related to industrial electrical work.
- Collaborated with engineers to design innovative electrical systems that met or exceeded client specifications and requirements.
- Contributed to a positive organizational culture by fostering teamwork among crew members while holding everyone accountable for their performance at all times.
- Demonstrated strong leadership skills by effectively managing a team of technicians through various stages of project completion, ensuring high-quality results delivered on time and within budget constraints.
- Assisted in recruiting top talent to build a highly skilled team capable of handling complex tasks efficiently and accurately.
- Ensured compliance with local, state, and federal regulations by staying up-to-date on industry news and changes in legislation affecting industrial electrical work.
- Maximized team productivity through continuous training on new technologies, industry best practices, and safety procedures.
- Reduced downtime by promptly addressing electrical issues and providing timely solutions to minimize disruptions in operations.
- Ensured adherence to quality standards through regular inspections, audits, and reporting of industrial electrical systems.
- Expedited troubleshooting processes through advanced diagnostic techniques for identifying root causes of electrical issues and developing effective solutions.
- Optimized energy consumption with the implementation of energy-saving initiatives in the facility''s electrical infrastructure.
- Maintained a clean working environment with proper organization of tools, materials, and equipment necessary for efficient workflow processes within the job site daily routines.
- Tested circuit continuity to determine electrical compatibility and component safety.
- Repaired and replaced equipment, electrical wiring and fixtures.
- Prepared sketches and blueprints.
- Observed functioning of installed equipment or system to detect hazards and need for adjustments, relocation or replacement.
Maintenance Electrician
Sino-Zimbabwe Cement Manufacturing Company
04.2000 - 09.2002
- Ensured compliance with industry standards through diligent adherence to local, state, and federal regulations for electrical work.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to improve operational efficiency and minimize production disruptions caused by electrical malfunctions.
- Spearheaded efforts to upgrade outdated or inefficient components within the facility''s electrical infrastructure, resulting in improved functionality and performance over time.
- Collaborated closely with other maintenance professionals to coordinate repairs efficiently without disrupting daily operations.
- Kept up-to-date with advancements in industry technology and practices by attending workshops and conferences, subsequently implementing new techniques as appropriate.
- Improved equipment reliability by implementing preventive maintenance schedules and procedures.
- Optimized plant performance through comprehensive assessment of electrical control systems, making necessary adjustments for optimal output.
- Reduced downtime by promptly troubleshooting and repairing electrical issues in industrial machinery.
- Maintained accurate documentation of completed repairs and maintenance activities, keeping management informed of ongoing projects and potential concerns.
- Supported successful equipment installations by accurately interpreting blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings during project execution.
- Maintained a strong commitment to safety protocols while working with high-voltage systems; significantly reduced risk of accidents or injuries.
- Conducted periodic assessments of maintenance tools and equipment, ensuring they were in proper working order to maximize workplace efficiency.
- Proactively identified areas for improvement in energy consumption, recommending cost-effective solutions for reducing usage and waste.
- Inspected electrical equipment to assure it was operating correctly.
- Safely installed new electrical components, fixtures and motors in addition to testing systems to enhance power flow.
- Used oscilloscopes, voltmeters and ohmmeters to test electrical systems.
- Interpreted drawings, wiring diagrams, flow charts and written descriptions of project requirements.
- Spliced, joined and connected wire to fixtures and other electrical components.
- Prevented breakdown of systems by routinely inspecting and replacing old wiring and cleaning circuits.
- Troubleshot and repaired malfunctioning systems and components.
- Inspected electrical systems, equipment and components to identify hazards, defects and need for adjustment or repair.
Electrician Apprentice
Circle Cement Manufacturing Company
03.1996 - 03.2000
- Improved electrical system safety by conducting thorough inspections and identifying potential hazards.
- Increased productivity by effectively managing multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining high-quality workmanship.
- Maintained compliance with local codes and regulations by staying up-to-date on industry standards and best practices.
- Developed strong working relationships with clients through consistent professionalism, reliability, and transparency during projects.
- Enhanced energy efficiency by recommending and installing upgraded electrical components in residential and commercial properties.
- Utilized advanced diagnostic tools to pinpoint root causes of electrical failures accurately, minimizing repair timeframes for clients.
- Designed custom lighting solutions tailored specifically to individual client needs for both aesthetic appeal and functional purposes.
- Coordinated with other tradespeople seamlessly during large-scale installations or renovations to ensure smooth project progressions.
- Reduced downtime for clients by quickly diagnosing and repairing complex electrical issues.
- Assisted in the design phase of various projects, providing input on optimal lighting layouts, power distribution plans, and equipment specifications.
- Demonstrated expertise in use of cable reels, stripping tools, voltage detectors, and wire and cable cutters to complete fast-paced work.
- Coordinated with other trades and general contractors to facilitate layout of recessed fixtures and architectural lighting.
- Used testing instruments such as ohmmeters, voltmeters, ammeters, and multimeters.
Education
Ph.D. - Business Administration And Management
University of KwaZulu Natal
Durban, South Africa 04.2001 -
MBA - Business Administration And Management
University of South Africa
Joannesburg, South Africa 04.2001 -
MDP - Management Development Program
University of South Africa
Johannesburg, South Africa 04.2001 -
Bachelor of Technology - Electrical Engineering
University of South Africa
Johannesburg, South Africa 04.2001 -
National Diploma - Electrical Power Engineering
Mutare Polytechnical College
Mutare, Zimbabwe 04.2001 -
Technician Diploma - Electrical, Electronics Engineering Technologies
City & Guilds
London, England 04.2001 -
Electrical Apprenticeship - Electrical Power Engineering
Circlr Cement Manufacturing Company
Harare, Zimbabwe 04.2001 -
Skills
MS Office
undefinedAttributes
- Curiosity - to know how and why things work as they do. Once I have this understanding, my thinking morphs into how I can make it better, faster, and more efficient for less money!
- Critical Thinking – I have always had a need to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information to make objective judgements and recommendations. I rely on these critical thinking skills in every stage of my work, particularly when it comes to decision-making. I can think critically, am able to deftly handle the wide variety of technical, administrative, policy, and interpersonal communication challenges that arise within a day’s work or a project’s timeline.
- Creativity – I am able to find room for my creative spirit and as such creativity often spurs my innovation for tasks at hand.
- Effective Communication -I am able to come up with brilliant ideas for projects and can effectively articulate those ideas to management, teammates, clients, and other stakeholders. I understand very well that clear, concise, written and verbal communication is the key to giving ideas life and transpires down to my team and peers to give that competitive edge. I pride myself in being able to make use of plenty of resources such as books, podcasts, and webinars in order to improve my ability to effectively communicate.
- A Collaborative Spirit – in my role I do not work in a vacuum. I consistently work with other engineers, supply chain management, financial and project managers, and others from various business units, where I contribute to collaborative and cross-functional teams to ensure integrated development. This ensures that projects that I undertake will be successful.
Secondary Education
1995, GCE Cambridge Examination Passed, St Faith’s High School, Rusape, Zimbabwe
Other Courses Training
- Sugar Technology
- DCS
- PLC & SCADA Training
- PLC Communications Training
- Variable/fixed Speed Drives Training
- Power Systems Analysis
Memberships Affiliations
- Member of SAIEE (South Africa Institute of Electrical Engineers) - Membership Number_12438
- Certified Profibus Engineer (Profibus Competence Centre of South Africa)
Areas Of Specialisation Skills Summary
- Strategic Planning
- Business Integration
- Production Planning and Control
- Competitive Market Positioning
- Quality Management
- New Business & Project Management
- New Product Development & Project Management
- Sugar Refinery, Ethanol & Power Plants
- Negotiation, Contract management
- Agriculture: Sugar Cane
Contactable References
- Mr Hugo Truter, General Manager Projects, ASANKO GOLD, Ghana, hugo.truter@asanko.com, +233 (0)30 276 1454, +27 11 467 2758, +27 71 284 1596
- Mr Admire Makuvaro, Head of Engineering, Mimosa Mining Company, Zimbabwe, makuvaroa@mimosa.co.zw, (+263) 54 230000, (+263) 712 418 761
- Mr Albert Pretorious, Control & Software Engineer, DRA Contractors, South Africa, albertp@drasa.co.za, (+27) 11 202 8801, (+27) 824572165
Timeline
Factory Manager
Tongaat Hulett Sugar
08.2023 - Current
Engineering Manager
Tongaat Hullet Sugar
10.2016 - 07.2023
Senior Plant Engineer
Tongaat Hullets Sugar
10.2013 - 06.2016
Plant Engineer
Tongaat Hullet Sugar
10.2010 - 10.2013
Projects Superintendent
Norilsk Nickel (Tati Nickel Mine)
03.2004 - 09.2010
Electrical & Instruments Foreman
Mimosa Mining Company
09.2002 - 02.2004
Ph.D. - Business Administration And Management
University of KwaZulu Natal
04.2001 -
MBA - Business Administration And Management
University of South Africa
04.2001 -
MDP - Management Development Program
University of South Africa
04.2001 -
Bachelor of Technology - Electrical Engineering
University of South Africa
04.2001 -
National Diploma - Electrical Power Engineering
Mutare Polytechnical College
04.2001 -
Technician Diploma - Electrical, Electronics Engineering Technologies
City & Guilds
04.2001 -
Electrical Apprenticeship - Electrical Power Engineering
Circlr Cement Manufacturing Company
04.2001 -
Maintenance Electrician
Sino-Zimbabwe Cement Manufacturing Company
04.2000 - 09.2002
Electrician Apprentice
Circle Cement Manufacturing Company
03.1996 - 03.2000
Similar Profiles
Ramos MucaveRamos Mucave
Creditor's Clerk at Tongaat Hulett SugarCreditor's Clerk at Tongaat Hulett Sugar
Mbongiseni NdebeleMbongiseni Ndebele
Projects Manager at Tongaat Hulett Sugar South Africa (Pty) LtdProjects Manager at Tongaat Hulett Sugar South Africa (Pty) Ltd
VALARRY GAYAKAYAVALARRY GAYAKAYA
Materials Science Technician at Tongaat HulettMaterials Science Technician at Tongaat Hulett