Isaac Simukonda
Mazabuka,07
Summary
Safety | Health | Environment | Risk & Quality Extensively qualified and experienced SHERQ Leadership Executive, I Isaac Simukonda offers more than 11 years of dedicated industry expertise, and a solid track record of continuing professional development. I have diverse exposure includes senior service to corporations operating in the following industries: Banking, Construction & Project Management, Environmental Management, Mining & Tile Manufacturing, Agriculture and Food Manufacturing. A subject matter expert in leading strategic execution of cultural change management systems, I am highly accomplished in influencing the administrative and legislative aspects of safety, health, environment, risk and quality and Continuous transformation - at the top levels of impact. Since being recognized the number one SHERQ -CI coordinator for Operations (Nanga Farms) in 2022, I have maintained a spotless record of zero major incident/s on any of my projects. I excel in managing multi-site programmes that span initial needs analysis, through to cost-efficient implementation and continuous improvement of systems. Further designing and facilitating training programmes across SHERQ-CI, senior management, workforce and contractor dimensions; in order to most effectively on-board stakeholders and champion optimal compliance.
Director SHEQ | Global HSE Manager | Corporate SHEQ Manager | Business Improvement Head
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Safety Health Environment Risk Quality-Continuous Improvement Coordinator
Nanga Farms Limited (Division Of Zambia Sugar Plc)
05.2020 - Current
- Core Overview: Nanga Farms Limited is a significant player in the agricultural sector, primarily engaged in the production of sugarcane and ranching
- As a proud member of Illovo Sugar Africa, a conglomerate owned by Associated British Foods - Sugar, Nanga Farms stands as a key contributor to the global sugar industry
- The company is owned by Zambia Sugar Plc
- I report to General Manager, and Nanga Management committee.
- Key Roles & Accountabilities Under SHERQ: Dedicated and results-driven professional seeking a challenging position as a Safety Health Environment Risk and Quality Continuous Improvement Officer, leveraging extensive expertise in strategic leadership, operations management, project management, people leadership, continuous improvement, and data management to enhance organizational safety, efficiency, and overall performance.
- Strategic Leadership: Developing and executing strategic plans for safety, health, environment, risk, and quality as well as continuous improvement initiatives
- Collaborating with senior management to align safety and quality objectives with overall business goals
- Lead accident / incident investigations, making appropriate recommendations to eliminate occurrence / prevent recurrence
- Planning, implementing, and overseeing strategic change management processes, such as the incorporation of a contractor offering tractor services to Nanga Farms, as well as the gradual transition from in-house cane cutting services to outsourcing.
- Operations Management: Overseeing and optimizing safety protocols, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and internal policies
- Monitors the effective, efficient and compliant implementation of appropriate SHERQ policies and procedures, identifying and executing updates in line with regulatory changes or internal requirements across jurisdictions
- Performs periodic review, audit and update of the SHERQ Framework
- Performs SHERQ risk assessments and participates in the development of ABF Sugar Global Standards on fatal risk bowties
- Directs implementation of the SHERQ Framework and Policies and Guidelines across Nanga Farms
- Maintain and track Environmental parameters that is water, energy, waste and agricultural inputs such as fertilizer and pesticides for Alcumus reporting
- Conducts and / or oversees SHERQ audits [internal and external], analyses SHERQ standards, and identifies trends and areas for improvement
- Facilitates in-house SHERQ training for staff, promoting a culture of compliance in-line with ‘Target Zero’no harm, injury or damage to personnel, property, or the environment]
- Preparing environmental impact assessment report and environmental project briefs.
- Project Management: Managing cross-functional teams in the execution of safety and quality improvement projects
- Successfully implemented projects that resulted in a 100% reduction in incidents and improved overall safety culture
- Providing engineering input into new projects and modification programs such as machine guarding
- Maintaining overarching accountability for all construction, Health, Safety and Environment operations, on the farm
- Leading and managing business improvement projects from initiation to completion for example the construction of fuel bay, Nanga Bridge and installation of subsurface drip projects for phase 2,3 & 4.
- People Leadership: Providing leadership and guidance to a team of safety, health, and quality professionals
- Conducting regular training sessions to enhance employee awareness and compliance with safety protocols
- Liaises with, advises and supports governmental organizations, contractors and communities with regards to SHERQ-CI
- Builds out the local team as required, to support optimal functioning
- Professionally represents the organization in all engagements, reflecting the core values of Nanga Farms Ltd
- Collaborating with various departments to understand their specific needs and challenges
- Developing project plans, set timelines, and allocate resources effectively.
- Continuous Improvement: Developing and implementing strategies to improve business processes and operations and implementation of lean six sigma methodologies to enhance systems performance
- Align improvement initiatives with organizational goals and objectives
- Conduct thorough analysis of existing business processes to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement
- Utilize data and performance metrics to assess the effectiveness of current processes
- Foster a culture of cross-functional teamwork and communication
- Implementing change management strategies to ensure smooth transitions during process improvements
- Address resistance and facilitate organizational acceptance of changes
- Establish and enforce quality standards and procedures
- Implement systems to monitor and evaluate quality metrics.
- Enhanced operational efficiency by implementing continuous improvement initiatives and streamlining processes.
- Reduced waste and increased productivity by identifying bottlenecks and implementing targeted solutions.
- Boosted employee engagement in improvement projects through effective communication and training sessions.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify areas for improvement and develop action plans accordingly.
- Championed a culture of continuous improvement, fostering an environment where employees felt empowered to suggest changes.
- Analyzed data to track performance metrics, using findings to drive process improvements and increase overall effectiveness.
- Conducted root cause analyses on recurring issues, developing sustainable corrective actions to prevent future occurrences.
- Facilitated workshops for employees on Lean methodologies and tools, promoting their adoption across the organization.
- Developed standard work procedures, ensuring consistency in execution and enabling easier identification of improvement opportunities.
- Evaluated existing systems for inefficiencies, proposing changes that led to significant cost savings and increased output.
- Managed multiple continuous improvement projects simultaneously while maintaining strict adherence to deadlines and budgets.
- Trained staff members on problem-solving techniques, empowering them to contribute effectively towards process improvements.
- Implemented 5S methodology throughout the workplace, improving organization and reducing clutter-related incidents or delays.
- Managed development and implementation of lean and continuous improvement manufacturing initiatives across production environment.
- Changed existing processes and implemented new processes to improve efficiency by 30%.
Environmental Health & Safety Officer
Wonderful Group
02.2016 - 01.2020
- Core Overview: The Wonderful Group of Companies Limited is a versatile and well-regarded industrial conglomerate that operates in various sectors, including packaging, PVC construction materials, porcelain and ceramic products, silk cocoons, and fertilizer products.
- Key Roles & Accountabilities Under Senior EHS Officer: Strategic Leadership: Advised and guided top management and board members on EHS best practices, to integrate and achieve the company’s mission, core values and vision
- Assisted and trained site management and safety personnel in the design and implementation of safety cultural systems for change, and in development of annual EHS plans, policies and guidelines
- Continuously monitored and updated leadership and colleagues on the latest developments in international and industry-specific legislation, and their effects on operational requirements
- Senior leadership role within a construction project management company
- Implemented global best practices at each site, in-line with international, country and jurisdictional EHS legislation, international standards and company directives.
- Operations Management: Reviewed and analyzed requirements for cultural safety change, by assessing client workplaces and processes to identify worker and project risks
- Set and controlled operational and project budgets, monitoring and adjusting expenditure as needed
- Planned schedules and assigned staff to HSE internal programme and external project executions
- Coordinated all EHS systems to ensure optimal; implementation, review, audit, updating, systems of training design, and implementation in accordance with company EHS corporate guidelines and country legislation
- Maintained Zero Tolerance and Zero Major Incident rates, aligned with Chairman’s zero compromise on safety ethos and the company’s safety-first motto.
- Project Management: Oversaw projects from initial design, across - bid slate, contractor approval, mobilization, construction phases, change orders, and demobilization - up to final handover
- Managed construction and maintenance for infrastructure projects, including a 500,000 liters Water Treatment Plant, Pump Stations, Reservoirs, fuel bay, Wastewater and Sewage Plants
- Streamlined utility projects involving new installation, upgrade and removal of water, sewage, oil and gas pipelines - including low and high voltage electrical utilities
- Oversaw safe demolition of administration buildings, workshops and welding shops, substations and fire stations.
- People Leadership: Established clear EHS performance indicators, routinely measuring and addressing compliance issues
- Mentored and coached Organizational staff and colleagues in HSE best-practice and policy enforcement
- Acted as catalyst and conflict resolution key, to bridge gaps and misunderstandings in procedures
- Produced and presented periodic management reviews to senior leadership team for discussion.
- Improved workplace safety by conducting thorough risk assessments and implementing necessary control measures.
- Reduced accident rates with consistent monitoring of employee compliance to safety protocols.
- Enhanced emergency response times by developing and executing comprehensive evacuation plans.
- Conducted regular safety audits, identifying potential hazards and implementing corrective actions promptly.
- Promoted a culture of safety through engaging workshops and training sessions for employees on various topics such as hazard identification, PPE usage, and incident reporting.
- Streamlined accident reporting procedures, resulting in more accurate data for analysis and prevention efforts.
- Collaborated with management to develop site-specific safety policies, ensuring alignment with federal and state requirements.
Branch Administrative Officer
AB Bank Zambia Limited
07.2012 - 01.2016
- The duties of a Bank Administrative Officer encompass a broad range of responsibilities, including administrative functions, continuous improvement initiatives, and facilities management.
- Key Roles & Accountabilities: Administrative functions: Oversee and coordinate day-to-day administrative functions within the bank
- Manage office supplies, equipment, and general office maintenance
- Identify opportunities for process improvements within the bank's operations
- Maintain accurate and organized records related to administrative activities, facilities, and security measures
- Assist in budget planning for administrative, facility, and security-related expenses
- Monitor and control expenditures within approved budget parameters
- Liaise with vendors and service providers to ensure the timely delivery of services
- Evaluate vendor performance and negotiate contracts for cost-effective solutions
- Ensure logistical arrangements and support for successful events
- Serve as a liaison between different departments, ensuring effective communication and coordination
- Handle internal and external communications related to administrative matters
- Ensure adherence to bank policies and procedures in all administrative, facility, and security-related activities.
- Continuous Improvement: Develop and implement strategies for continuous improvement in workflow efficiency and productivity
- Ensure compliance with record-keeping policies and procedures
- Foster a culture of continuous learning and development within the administrative team.
- Facilities management: Supervise and manage the bank's facilities, including office spaces and common areas
- Collaborate with facility service providers to ensure a well-maintained and safe working environment
- Implement and enforce security protocols to safeguard the bank's assets, employees, and customers
- Coordinate with security personnel to monitor and address security concerns
- Develop and implement emergency response plans to address unforeseen situations
- Conduct drills and training sessions to prepare staff for emergency scenarios
- Stay updated on relevant regulations and compliance requirements related to administrative, facility, and security functions
- Implement measures to ensure regulatory compliance
- Provide training to staff on security awareness and emergency response procedures
- Monitor and enforce health and safety standards within the bank's premises.
- Enhanced overall office productivity through effective staff management and coordination of daily tasks.
- Reduced expenses by negotiating with vendors for cost-effective supply contracts and services.
- Boosted employee morale by addressing concerns promptly and fostering a positive work environment.
Education
Associate Safety Professional - Environmental Health And Safety
Board of Certified Safety Professionals
United States02.2024
MBA - Finance
The Copperbelt University
Kitwe, Zambia07.2024
Skills
- Process improvement expertise
- Lean manufacturing principles
- Quality Management Systems
- Conflict resolution techniques
- Standard Operating Procedures
- Problem-Solving
- Statistical Analysis
- QMS
- Problem-solving aptitude
Affiliations
- Board of Certified Safety Professionals – Associate Safety Professional (under construction)
- Safety for Non-Profit (S4NP) – Volunteer
- Workplace Safety Without Borders
- Impact Assessment Association of Zambia (IAAZ)
Languages
English
Nyanja
Namwanga
Courses Training
- Master of Business Administration in Finance: The Copperbelt University (Zambia), Projected Completion December 2023
- Executive Diploma in Strategic Change Management: UniAthena, Projected Completion February 2024
- Associate Safety Professional Board of Certified Safety Professionals (USA), February 2024
- Certified Six Sigma Green Belt: International Six Sigma Institute (Switzerland), January 2023
- Mastering Quality Management & Lean Operation: Acacia University, November 2023
- Lean Six Sigma White Belt; MF Treinamentos (Brazil), January 2023
- Impact Evaluation Methods; Trinity College Dublin (Ireland), June 2022
- ISO 45001:2018 & ISO 14001:2015 Introduction Webinar; NOSA (South Africa), June 2022
- Certificate of Introduction to ESG: Corporate Financial Institute (Online), March 2023
- Diploma in Workplace Safety and Health; Alison (Ireland), April 2018
- Bachelor of Science in Wood Science and Technology (Major in Environment): The Copperbelt University (Zambia) 2012
- The Fundamentals of 5S E-learning program: AB Sugar/Illovo Sugar Africa, (Zambia), May 2023
- Workplace First Aid | Examination Advanced | Certificate No. 011/20 | Red Cross Zambia | August 2023
- Defensive Driving & Riding | Certificate No.2023/BEL-DDCO1/6014 & 2023/ BEL-MBTO1/6080 | Belsam | November & August 2023
- Basics of Contract Management: Uniathena /CIQ, (UK), July 2023
Driver License
Code AB (Including International License)
Marital Status
Married
Strengths Soft Skills
- Proactive leader, who sets and achieves stretch targets with systematic approach and motivational management style.
- Intrinsically driven self-starter; well-versed in the latest international trends; presentation, communication and negotiation abilities from the top down across functions.
- Highly adept change agent in a multiverse of operating scenarios; fixes dysfunctional and non-productive processes and policies.
- Dedicated and highly organized mentor, coach and key leadership figure; hands-on skills in driving stringent SHERQ compliance across hierarchies and cultures.
- Passionate people’s person; simplifies complexity and unifies diverse objectives through communal goal orientation.
- Visionary and pioneering goal-setter; sets and relentlessly pursues high standards, goals and best practices in safety cultures.
Availability
1 Months’ Notice Period
References
- Lawrence Polkinghorne, General Manager, +260-764317921, lpolkinghorne@zamsugar.zm
- Omar Mukuba, Head – Deposit Sales, +260-966323453, Omarm3004@yahoo.com
- Mark Sinyangwe, Marketing Manager, +260-977332533, mark@wonderfulgroup2010.com
Timeline
Safety Health Environment Risk Quality-Continuous Improvement Coordinator
Nanga Farms Limited (Division Of Zambia Sugar Plc)
05.2020 - Current
Environmental Health & Safety Officer
Wonderful Group
02.2016 - 01.2020
Branch Administrative Officer
AB Bank Zambia Limited
07.2012 - 01.2016
Associate Safety Professional - Environmental Health And Safety
Board of Certified Safety Professionals
MBA - Finance
The Copperbelt University
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