Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to appoint a service provider to operate four accredited shared chemical and detergent manufacturing and training facilities in the KwaZulu-Natal province for a period of 36 months. The aim is to manage and facilitate training, support SMMEs and cooperatives, ensure compliance with industry standards, and promote sustainable development within the chemical manufacturing sector.

Scope

The scope of work includes:

• Managing four facilities located in Gamalakhe, Portshepstone, Esikhawini, and Madadeni, each with specific SMME incubation targets.
• Recruiting and onboarding eligible SMMEs and cooperatives into a 36-month incubation program.
• Providing technical training on manufacturing, labeling, quality assurance, and effective product marketing.
• Supporting business development activities such as marketing, financial mobilization, and market access.
• Facility management covering adherence to manufacturing and safety procedures, maintenance, and consumables management.
• Ensuring compliance with statutory bodies like CHIETA and SABS standards, including waste management and product quality.
• Providing operational support including staff management, customer service, financial management, and reporting.
• Capacitating the facilities with skilled human resources, including managers, laboratory personnel, and support staff.

Technical Requirements

The technical requirements specify that the service provider must:

• Operate the facilities in accordance with approved manuals and standards for quality, safety, and environmental health.
• Ensure all products meet South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) and relevant industry standards.
• Manage logistics, equipment setup, and technical support for training activities.
• Implement safety procedures, including fire safety, security, and emergency protocols.
• Maintain accurate records of training, production, and attendance, and provide monthly reports on key performance indicators.
• Support SMMEs and cooperatives through technical training, business support, and mentorship.
• Ensure continuous improvement through feedback mechanisms and industry updates.

Skills Requirements

The successful bidder must demonstrate the following skills and qualifications:

• Company Experience: Proven track record of at least 3 projects in providing mentorship, training, and business support to SMMEs or cooperatives in the chemical manufacturing industry.
• Financial Mobilization: Experience in mobilizing financial resources for new and existing businesses.
• Management Skills: Postgraduate qualification (e.g., in Business Administration or Chemical Engineering) with at least 5 years of relevant senior management experience, including managing training or manufacturing facilities.
• Technical Expertise: Qualified professionals such as Laboratory Managers with relevant qualifications (e.g., Chemical Engineering or Laboratory Management) and experience in detergent manufacturing.
• Financial Skills: Personnel with a minimum of 3 years’ experience in accounting or financial management, possessing relevant diplomas or degrees.
• Marketing Skills: Staff with at least 3 years’ experience in marketing or related fields, with appropriate qualifications.
• Operational Skills: Ability to manage safety, security, facility maintenance, and compliance with statutory standards.
• Reporting and Monitoring: Capacity to produce detailed monthly reports and maintain accurate records.