Head of Engineering – Metals

Job Description

Are you looking to advance your leadership career as a Head of Engineering within the heavy metals manufacturing sector? Our client, a leading industrial powerhouse in Durban, is seeking a visionary Head of Engineering to spearhead their Metals division. In this critical executive role, you will drive technical innovation, oversee complex engineering projects, and ensure operational excellence across the organisation.

About the Role

As the Head of Engineering, you will be at the forefront of the metals division, shaping the future of engineering operations in Durban. This role demands a strategic thinker who can seamlessly bridge the gap between technical execution and commercial business goals. The successful Head of Engineering will champion a culture of continuous improvement, optimise resource allocation, and elevate safety standards to world-class levels.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor multi-disciplinary engineering teams across the metals division.
• Direct the planning, execution, and delivery of large-scale engineering projects.
• Develop and implement innovative engineering strategies to optimise production efficiency.
• Ensure stringent adherence to national and international safety, health, and environmental standards.
• Oversee capital expenditure budgets and manage departmental financial performance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional leaders to align engineering objectives with organisational goals.
• Drive continuous improvement programmes, utilising Lean or Six Sigma methodologies.
• Manage relationships with key external stakeholders, contractors, and suppliers.
• Establish robust maintenance frameworks to minimise downtime and extend equipment lifecycle.
• Analyse operational data to identify trends and implement corrective engineering solutions.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical, Metallurgical, or Industrial Engineering.
• Professional Engineering Registration (Pr.Eng) is highly advantageous.
• A minimum of 10 years of engineering experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven track record within the metals, mining, or heavy manufacturing industries.
• Demonstrated experience in managing large capital projects and complex budgets.

Skills & Competencies

• Exceptional leadership and team-building capabilities.
• Strong strategic planning and commercial acumen.
• In-depth knowledge of metallurgical processes and heavy machinery.
• Advanced problem-solving skills and analytical thinking.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Commitment to fostering a safety-first organisational culture.

What We Offer

• Highly competitive executive remuneration package of R150,000 – R180,000 per month.
• Comprehensive performance-based bonus structures.
• Executive healthcare and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities to drive industry-leading innovations in the metals sector.

If you are ready to make a significant impact as a Head of Engineering in Durban, we want to hear from you. Submit your updated CV to apply@hiregroup.net today and take the next step in your executive career.