Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Lilongwe
- Category: Manufacturing
- Closing Date: 2026-09-01
Key Responsibilities
- Integrating and coordinating section resources requirements for season and offcrop to optimize resource leveling across the operations.
- Consolidating sectional specific plans and schedules into an overall integrated site plan, facilitating resolution of schedule and/or plant conflict.
- Managing and coordinating the CMMS & CBM programme on site and driving CBM effectiveness.
- Coordinating and assisting with bearing & gear inspection, and thermography & oil sampling for the plant.
- Managing that offcrop plans and schedules are delivered.
- Providing input into scope changes for the purpose of alignment affordability.
- Integrating & coordinating project & capital implementation (resource leveling, asset master data, plant modus).
- Managing planning department adherence to JAMP policy and technical work planning and control standards.
- Managing planning department adherence to JAMP policy and technical work planning and control standards.
- Managing planning department adherence to JAMP policy and technical work planning and control standards, including, without limitation, those relating to SHEQO, Competition Law and Anti-Bribery and Corruption (ABC).
Requirements
- Bachelors Degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering or a similar field
- 3+ years’ experience in maintenance and/or maintenance planning.
- Good communication skills.
- Strong organizing skills
- Ability to work methodically and systematically.
How to Apply
Address: The HR Mill Head, Illovo Sugar (Malawi) plc, P.O Box 45, Dwangwa
About the Company
Illovo Sugar (Malawi) plc is a key player in Malawi's agricultural and industrial landscape, primarily engaged in sugar production. This prominent Malawian company maintains a public listing on the Malawi Stock Exchange. The majority of its issued share capital, precisely 76%, is held by the Illovo Group, a significant entity in the African sugar sector. The remaining shares are accessible to the public, fostering local investment and broader participation in the company's operations within Malawi.
Malawi's key producer of sugar, listed on the local exchange.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a Maintenance Planning Manager role in Malawi's manufacturing sector?
A bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial Engineering is commonly required, often supplemented by a diploma or certificate in maintenance management or reliability engineering from institutions like Mzuzu University or the Polytechnic. Professional certifications such as CMRP (Certified Maintenance & Reliability Professional) or ISO 55000 training are increasingly valued, especially by larger employers like Illovo Sugar (Malawi) plc.
What does a typical day look like for a Maintenance Planning Manager in a Malawian sugar manufacturing plant?
The role involves coordinating weekly maintenance schedules with production teams, reviewing work orders and spare parts availability, and liaising with supervisors to minimise downtime during cane crushing season. Daily tasks also include updating CMMS (e.g., SAP PM or Maximo), conducting pre-job briefings with technicians, and reporting on KPIs like planned maintenance percentage and MTTR to site leadership.
How does the local work culture in Malawian manufacturing influence expectations for this role?
Respect for hierarchy and strong interpersonal communication are essential, as decisions often involve consultation with senior Malawian engineers and union representatives. Punctuality, reliability, and demonstrated commitment to safety—aligned with Malawi’s Factories Act and OSH guidelines—are consistently emphasised during performance reviews and team interactions.
What realistic career progression paths exist for Maintenance Planning Managers in Malawian agro-manufacturing companies?
With 5–7 years’ experience, professionals often advance to Senior Maintenance Manager or Operations Support Manager roles, sometimes rotating into production or reliability engineering. Further growth may include regional technical leadership positions across Illovo’s Southern African operations or transition into asset management consulting with local firms accredited by the Malawi Institute of Engineers.
What benefits are typically offered to Maintenance Planning Managers in Malawian manufacturing firms like Illovo Sugar?
Standard benefits include 21–30 days annual leave, full medical aid coverage through providers like Malawi Health Insurance Company (MHIC), and mandatory NAPSA pension contributions. Some employers also offer housing allowances, transport support, and study leave for relevant professional development aligned with company needs.