Head of Operations – Food Manufacturing Plant

About the role

The Head of Operations will lead the entire value chain of a food manufacturing plant in Tigoni, overseeing raw material sourcing, processing, quality, maintenance, stores, dispatch and delivery across East Africa. Reporting to the Senior Leadership Team, the role translates corporate strategy into an operational plan that ensures timely, high‑quality product delivery at optimal cost.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute a 3‑5 year operations strategy covering capacity, investment and capability for growth.
• Lead planning that converts sales forecasts into production, purchasing and stock plans in collaboration with Sales and Finance.
• Drive efficiency, yield and waste reduction through Lean and Kaizen methodologies.
• Manage purchasing of milk, ingredients and packaging, building strong relationships with farmers and suppliers.
• Own food safety and quality, maintaining ISO 22000 and HACCP certifications and compliance with KEBS and the Kenya Dairy Board.
• Run a planned maintenance programme and oversee utilities such as boilers, refrigeration, water and power.
• Ensure on‑time‑in‑full (OTIF) delivery to customers, distributors and company stores.
• Promote a zero‑harm safety culture and compliance with OSHA and NEMA regulations.
• Achieve cost‑of‑goods, gross margin and operations budget targets.
• Build, coach and develop a strong leadership team with succession planning for key roles.

Required profile

• Degree in Food Science, Dairy Technology, Engineering, Supply Chain or related field; MBA or postgraduate qualification is an advantage.
• Minimum 10 years in operations, manufacturing or supply chain, with at least 5 years in senior management leading multiple functions.
• Experience in food manufacturing, preferably dairy or FMCG.
• Proven record of measurable gains in cost, efficiency, quality and service.
• Strong knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, HACCP and ISO 22000 or FSSC 22000.
• Experience with budgets, investment business cases and ERP systems; advanced Excel skills.
• Strategic, data‑driven leader with high integrity who builds trust with teams, suppliers and customers.

Required skills

• Lean
• Kaizen
• Six Sigma
• ISO 22000 certification
• HACCP
• OSHA compliance
• NEMA compliance
• ERP systems
• Advanced Excel