By Donné Nieman, Sales Director, Western Cape at Workforce Staffing

Vehicle manufacturing is an economically important sector in South Africa, and having the right labour force is crucial for success in this industry. Skilled and experienced workers can help to drive innovation, increase efficiency, and support the growth of the industry, which is important for both the automotive sector and the broader economy. However, the sector also experiences high turnover rates and is currently undergoing rapid technological change as we transition toward electric vehicle manufacturing. These factors and other challenges can make accessing and retaining the right skills a challenging task. Temporary Employment Services (TES) providers can assist with flexible and cost-effective staffing solutions, as well as access to a larger pool of skilled workers to ensure manufacturers can access a skilled and compliant workforce to maximise production capacity. 

Challenging conditions

An ongoing challenge within the vehicle manufacturing sector is the high levels of unionisation and industrial action, which often results in production disruptions and increased labour costs, if not handled effectively. In addition, maintaining competitiveness and managing costs can prove difficult in light of ongoing load shedding and increased global competition. The need to adapt to new technologies and changes in the global market, including the growth of electric vehicles and automation, means that flexibility, productivity and optimised labour costs are imperative. 

Reduced admin, enhanced efficiency

A TES provider can assist in handling many of these labour and Human Resource (HR)-related challenges with a flexible and compliant workforce. They can provide both skilled and unskilled temporary workers as needed to cater to the demand and economic conditions and will also handle all aspects of employment administration, including payroll, benefits, and compliance with labour laws and regulations. 

TES providers also take on the administratively intensive task of conducting thorough background checks and ensuring that workers have the necessary qualifications and certifications to perform their jobs safely and effectively. They can also provide training and development opportunities to help workers improve their skills and advance their careers, as well as guidance and support to help employers navigate complex labour and HR issues, such as managing employee relations, addressing disciplinary and grievance matters, and developing effective workplace policies and procedures.

The advantage of a TES provider

A TES provider will work closely with employers in the vehicle manufacturing sector to understand their specific needs and develop customised solutions that are tailored to their unique requirements. This offers numerous benefits, including the flexibility to quickly adjust the workforce to meet changes in production demand, and often reduced labour costs as a result, which can help maintain profitability in a highly competitive industry.

In addition, a TES provider can offer access to a wider pool of specialised talent, allowing manufacturers to quickly find workers with the specific skills required for the job. TES providers also ensure a reduced administrative burden by handling many of the administrative tasks associated with hiring and managing workers, such as payroll, benefits, and HR management, as well as enhanced risk management through the handling of labour disputes and compliance issues, amongst other factors. This can help the vehicle manufacturing sector to become more cost-effective and productive, which is essential, given the current economic climate.