Professional Profile – Daniel Beukes

In this edition of Sassda’s Professional Profile, we spotlight Daniel Beukes, Head of Business Optimisation and IT at Fabrinox. Daniel’s journey from Industrial Engineering graduate to a leader in stainless steel innovation highlights his strategic problem-solving and dedication to optimising business processes. From integrating new software projects to addressing South Africa’s stainless steel challenges, Daniel emphasises resilience, collaboration, and local resource use as keys to industry growth…

Q. What did you study after school and what is it about the discipline that attracted you to this field of study?

A. I studied Industrial Engineering at Stellenbosch University for four years, beginning in 2018 and ending in 2021. My interest in mathematics drove me to engineering, and I opted for Industrial Engineering because it provides a diverse skill set applicable to all sections of the value chain. This discipline allows for the application of engineering principles across multiple industries, allowing me to contribute to any business environment without being limited to a specific field. Since I was like most grade 12 students, unsure of what exactly I wanted to do after my studies, this field provided the most opportunities. The opportunity to promote improvements in businesses, regardless of industry, was an essential element in my decision.

Q. How did the first years of your career build on what you learned during your tertiary education but in a more practical setting? What were the key lessons you learned during this time?

A. In the first few years of my career, I was able to put my strategic and logical thinking skills into practice, particularly in problem-solving scenarios. A significant part of my focus was aimed at project management, where I experimented with various methodologies to determine what was most
effective for different situations. Consistency, resilience and adaptability were the most important lessons I learned early in my career. Although careful preparation is essential, the real difficulty is in adjusting when things do not work out as planned. It is crucial to have the flexibility to change course, make new goals, and avoid obsessing over what did not work. Additionally, when a strategy proves successful, thorough documentation is critical to ensure it can be replicated effectively in the future.

Q. How would you describe a typical day in your current position? What are your key focus areas and areas of expertise?

A. As the Head of Business Optimisation and IT at Fabrinox, my normal day entails working closely with my IT team to ensure that all business-critical processes are executed without any warnings or disruptions. If any issues arise, my team and I focus all our attention on resolving them to minimise or prevent operational disruptions and/or downtime. When the systems are functioning, my team concentrates on configuring the system according to industry best practices and taking on projects designed to achieve cost savings or prevent user downtime. Ensuring we are initiative-taking in our approach to maintain the system.

My role also involves spearheading and overseeing different business process optimisation projects, collaborating with colleagues across the  company to identify and implement new initiatives. I aim to balance projects that deliver quick wins with those that promise long-term success. Additionally, I stay informed about emerging technologies in the steel industry, assessing advancements that could provide future benefits and
keeping us technologically on the forefront compared to our competitors.

Q. What is the biggest project, product launch or innovation that you are working and what lessons has it taught you thus far?

A. I am currently leading the implementation of a new software system that will oversee quoting, parts nesting, laser cutting of plate materials, and part offloading. The challenge lies in fully integrating this software with our existing network and system. We operate both as an engineer-to-order and make-to-order company. Our service ranges from delivering components with lead times under 2 days to long-term projects, sometimes  spanning over a year, where we deliver a full 360 service from customer concept and design to production, installation and after sales services. Managing this full spectrum within a single system is a complex task.

One of the key lessons I have learned is the importance of leveraging the strengths and technical expertise of our team members, assigning the right people to the right tasks. It is also crucial to maintain a clear focus on the primary objectives of the project, minimising scope changes despite the additional features the software may offer, which can be revisited in future projects. Most important, clear communication is essential, especially when aligning multiple suppliers toward the same goal.

Q. What do you feel are the biggest challenges facing South Africa’s stainless steel sector at present and how can these be overcome?

A. The South African stainless steel sector is facing several challenges, primarily rising import costs and the need to balance speed and quality with short lead times expected by customers. Local firms that depend on foreign suppliers are vulnerable to changes in the market and adjustments to trade agreements or tariffs, such as those resulting from international political events like the most recent U.S. elections. This puts pressure on manufacturers to innovate while managing costs and complex projects. Additionally, a declining interest among the younger generations in the skilled craftmanship work of stainless steel manufacturing threatens the industry’s future.

To address these issues, local manufacturers must optimise resource allocation, prioritise local sourcing to reduce dependency on imports, and maintain clear communication throughout the supply chain. Maintaining the artisan legacy and making sure the industry stays competitive globally require investments in training and mentoring for younger employees, along with investing in automation of tasks where repetitive work  underutilise human resources.

Q. Why do you feel that stainless steel still has such an important role to play in growing South Africa’s economy? What are the sector’s inherent strengths that continue to add value to our economy?

A. Stainless steel is critical to South Africa’s economy, driving job creation and supporting local communities. The industry employs a wide range of skilled workers, from artisans to engineers, contributing to economic stability. South African craftsmanship is globally recognised, with installations worldwide enhancing the nation’s international reputation.

In addition to job creation, the stainless steel sector is essential to other industries, including construction, manufacturing, mining, and energy. The material durability, corrosion resistance, and limited maintenance make stainless steel the perfect material for infrastructure projects and manufacturing, facilitating long-term investments that propel economic growth. Additionally, by producing stainless steel components domestically, we can lessen our dependency on imports and preserve more economic value in the nation.

In addition, the industry is well-positioned to contribute to South Africa’s sustainability goals. Stainless steel is 100% recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly choice that fits in with global and local sustainability trends. This enhances our economy further by promoting a circular economy model and reaffirming our dedication to environmentally responsible behaviours.

Q. What do you consider as the most exciting developments happening in stainless steel right now and what sectors hold the greatest potential for the use of stainless steel in the future?

A. Improvements in precision and high-quality finishes, especially for the food and medical industries, are among the most exciting breakthroughs in stainless steel. Because of its strength, resistance to corrosion, and capacity to uphold hygienic standards - all of which are essential for medical devices and equipment used in food processing - stainless steel is becoming increasingly in demand in these sectors. Innovations such as improved surface finishes and high-performance alloys are key in the food industry, stainless steel equipment must endure constant cleaning and sterilisation without deteriorating, which has led to the development of more durable stainless steel grades.

In the future, advanced stainless steel will be widely used in industries including rail infrastructure and aerospace. Notably, Transnet’s decision to open South Africa’s rail network to private investment, could drive a spike in rail projects, potentially increasing the use of stainless steel in rail carriages and infrastructure. This move aims to enhance the country’s rail capabilities and attract more private-sector engagement, this action will open new markets for stainless steel uses in environmentally exposed and high-stress rail components.

Overall, as industries seek to leverage the unique properties of stainless steel - combining strength, aesthetics, and corrosion resistance-the future holds promise, especially in environments requiring precision and durability.

For more info go to: https://www.fabrinox.com