Assistant Parts Manager, Life Cycle Support Hitachi Construction Machinery Zambia

Purpose of the role:

The Assistant Parts Manager, Life Cycle Support is responsible for managing and overseeing the parts department of HCMZ with specific reference to Lumwana/ Kansanshi/ Kitwe and DRC sites. The primary responsibility is to ensure the availability, proper inventory management, and distribution of parts required for repairs, maintenance, or production to all the sites within Zambia and cross border.

Reports to: Parts Manager, LCS

Branch: Kitwe x1

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

The Assistant Parts Manager, LCS will be required to perform the following tasks:

Inventory Management:

• Maintaining accurate and up-to-date inventory records of all parts and accessories.
• Tracking stock levels, forecasting demand, and ordering parts to ensure an adequate supply while avoiding overstocking or stockouts.

Procurement and Vendor Management:

• Coordinates with suppliers and vendors to order parts, negotiate pricing and terms, and establish strong relationships to ensure timely and cost-effective procurement.
• Evaluate vendors, compare prices, and select reliable suppliers to maintain the quality of parts.

Parts Distribution

• Oversee the distribution and allocation of parts to various departments, technicians, or customers.
• Ensure that the right parts are available when needed, coordinate delivery or shipping, and maintain proper documentation of transactions.

Team Management

• Responsible for hiring, training, and supervising staff.
• Assign tasks, set performance targets, provide guidance, and ensure a smooth workflow within the department.
• Conduct performance evaluations and address any performance or disciplinary issues that arise.

Customer Service

• Interact with customers, technicians, and other internal departments.
• Provide assistance, answer inquiries, and resolve any issues related to parts availability, compatibility, or pricing.
• Strive to deliver excellent customer service and maintain strong relationships with customers.
  Systems and Technology
• Utilize computer systems such as D365 or specialized software such as SPM to manage inventory, track orders, generate reports, and streamline operations.
• Responsible for implementing and maintaining effective inventory management systems and ensuring data accuracy.
  Budgeting and Reporting
• Involved in budget planning and monitoring, including cost control, analyzing expenses, and identifying areas for improvement.
• Generate reports, analyze data, and provide insights to the management team regarding parts department performance, trends, and opportunities (RT15).
  Compliance and Safety
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, such as safety standards, environmental regulations, and industry-specific requirements.
• Maintain documentation related to safety, disposal of hazardous materials, and warranty claims.

Qualifications & Experience

• Must have a Full Grade 12 Certificate.
• Minimum of a Degree in Purchasing and Supply/Business Administration or any related field.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in Parts Sales and Warehousing in a related industry
• Valid and unendorsed driver’s license
• Full Member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply or other relevant Professional Associations.

Job Specific Competencies

•  Proficient in computer skills (MS Office including MS Project)
•  Good Communicating and Listening Skills
•  People Management Skills
•  Conflict Handling Skills
•  Performance Management Skills