Production Coordinator / Assistant Production Manager

Job description

About a Popular Bunch: We're a bold, creative experiential marketing agency that brings big ideas to life through flawless execution. With our fully integrated in-house capabilities - from creative design to fabrication to national operations - we deliver unforgettable brand experiences for major FMCG and liquor brands across South Africa.

The opportunity: We're looking for an eager, hands-on individual to join our production team as a Production Coordinator. This is a growth role where you'll work directly under our shop fit and production manager, learning every aspect of our operation while providing crucial support. We're not just looking for experience - we want someone with the right attitude who we can shape into the aPB way of doing things.

What you'll do:

Day-to-day support

• Assist the production manager in coordinating daily workshop activities
• Help manage production schedules and track project progress in CHASE
• Be the communication bridge between different production departments
• Support quality control checks at various production stages
• Step in to lead production meetings when the production manager is unavailable

Learning and development

• Shadow the production manager to understand all aspects of production management
• Learn our systems, processes, and the aPB standard of excellence
• Develop relationships with our craftsmen - understanding woodwork, steelwork, painting, and electrical assembly
• Gain experience in reading technical drawings and BOMs from our CAD team
• Understand how creative concepts transform into physical reality

Project coordination

• Track material orders and deliveries
• Maintain production documentation and job files
• Coordinate between creative, operations, and production teams
• Assist with production briefings and take detailed notes
• Help prepare areas for client walkthroughs

Team support

• Be a positive presence on the workshop floor
• Help maintain team morale and our "we're in this together" culture
• Assist with basic training and onboarding of new production staff
• Support the team during high-pressure periods

Growing into the role

• Gradually take ownership of smaller projects
• Learn to provide accurate time estimates and identify potential challenges
• Develop vendor relationships under guidance
• Build confidence to make production decisions independently

Essential qualities:

• Hungry to learn and grow - this is a development opportunity
• Natural problem-solver who thinks on their feet
• Strong communication skills - comfortable talking to everyone from workshop staff to executives
• Detail-oriented with good organisational skills
• Able to handle pressure and tight deadlines with a positive attitude
• Basic computer skills (Excel, email) with willingness to learn our systems

Experience we'd value:

• 2-3 years in any production, manufacturing, or workshop environment
• Exposure to project coordination or admin in a technical field
• Any experience in events, exhibitions, or retail fabrication
• Understanding of at least one production discipline (wood, metal, paint, electrical)

The perfect fit would:

• Be excited about learning the business from the ground up
• Show initiative without being asked
• Have a "no job too small" mentality
• Want to build a career in production management
• Thrive in our fast-paced, dynamic environment

What we offer:

• Real career development - we'll invest in shaping you into a future production leader
• Mentorship from experienced managers across all departments
• Hands-on learning in a variety of production techniques
• Exposure to major brand projects and campaigns
• The chance to grow with a company that values loyalty and hustle
• A supportive team environment where questions are encouraged

Our promise: We're not looking for a finished product - we want someone we can mould into the aPB way. If you show commitment, curiosity, and drive, we'll teach you everything else. This role is designed to develop into a senior position as you grow with us.

Culture fit: We work hard and take pride in what we build. We support each other through challenging projects. We own our mistakes and learn from them. If you're ready to get your hands dirty, stay late when needed, and celebrate wins as a team, you'll fit right in.



Only candidates currently residing in the Johannesburg area will be considered.

Ready to start building your career with a Popular Bunch? Send us your CV and a brief note about why you're excited about this opportunity.

If you haven't heard from us within seven days, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Posted on 18 Aug 09:54, Closing date 17 Oct