Quantity Surveyor

Job Title: Quantity Surveyor

Department: Production

Workstation: Nairobi, Kenya

Job Purpose

The Quantity Surveyor in our furniture production company is responsible for managing the costs and contracts associated with manufacturing processes and projects. This role entails preparing cost estimates, budget management, and ensuring cost-effectiveness while optimizing material usage and maintaining quality standards in furniture production.

Key duties and responsibilities           

Cost Management and Estimation:

• Develop detailed cost plans for furniture production, considering materials like wood, fabrics, and other hardware components.
• Work closely with the design and production teams to ensure cost-efficiency without compromising on design and quality.
• Monitor ongoing production costs, identifying variances, and suggesting corrective actions to keep projects aligned with financial targets.

Contract Administration:

• Negotiate and manage contracts with material suppliers and subcontractors to secure favorable terms and mitigate risks.
• Oversee the procurement process from tendering to awarding contracts, ensuring competitive bidding and compliance with industry standards.

Risk Management:

• Assess risks related to supply chain, cost fluctuations, and production timelines. Implement strategies to mitigate these risks effectively.
• Provide advice on legal and regulatory compliance pertaining to furniture production and material procurement.

Reporting and Documentation:

• Prepare financial reports on production costs, efficiencies, and budget variances regularly.
• Ensure comprehensive documentation of all contracts and financial transactions for compliance and audit purposes.

Vendor and Stakeholder Engagement:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers of wood, textiles, and other furniture components.
• Collaborate with stakeholders across the organization to align financial and production strategies.

Sustainability and Efficiency:

• Champion the use of sustainable materials and eco-friendly production practices.
• Identify and implement cost-saving measures that enhance production efficiency and reduce waste.

Ad Hoc Tasks:

• Perform feasibility studies and financial analysis for potential projects, offering insights and recommendations.
• Assist in departmental budgeting and forecasting activities.

Knowledge, experience and qualifications required

·      Bachelor’s degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or relevant field with a focus on manufacturing or production.

·      Experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably in furniture production or similar industries with a strong background in cost management, contract negotiation, and project financial analysis.

·      Proficiency in cost management software and MS Office Suite.

Personal Competencies:

·      Exceptional analytical and numerical skills.

·      Strong negotiation and communication abilities.

·      Keen attention to detail and accuracy in financial matters.

·      Capable of working both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

·      Excellent organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

·      High level of professionalism and ethical standards in handling confidential financial information.

Decision making

·      Empowered to make decisions on material use, supplier contracts, and cost management within project scopes. Strategic decisions require approval from senior management.