Head of Production

Job Title: Production Head – Aqua Feed Manufacturing Plants (Production, Stores & Logistics)

Location: Vijayawada

Reports To: COO

Direct Reports: Plant Managers, Stores & Logistics Managers, & Maintenance Leads

Role Purpose:

The Operations Head will provide strategic and operational leadership for aqua feed manufacturing plants, covering Production, Stores, Warehousing, and Logistics . The role is responsible for ensuring end-to-end operational efficiency, high-quality output, compliance, and seamless supply chain execution, thereby enabling business growth and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Operations & Production

• Lead daily operations across all plants with focus on productivity, efficiency, and quality.
• Ensure continuous improvements in capacity utilization, process automation, and lean manufacturing.
• Monitor production KPIs (OEE, yield, downtime, wastage, cost per MT).

2. Quality & Compliance

• Ensure strict adherence to statutory quality norms.
• Partner with Quality & R&D teams for product consistency and innovation support.
• Drive a “zero defect” culture across plants.

3. Stores & Warehouse Management

• Oversee raw material stores, finished goods warehouses, and spare parts management.
• Implement strong inventory control systems with optimal stock levels (safety stock, reorder points).
• Leverage ERP systems for real-time visibility of stock movement and accuracy.

4. Logistics & Distribution

• Manage inbound logistics of raw materials and outbound distribution of finished products.
• Ensure cost-effective transportation while maintaining timely deliveries to dealers/farmers.
• Negotiate contracts with transporters, third-party logistics providers, and warehouse partners, if needed.
• Monitor logistics KPIs (On-Time Delivery %, Freight Cost per MT, Transit Losses).

5. Supply Chain Integration

• Collaborate with procurement for timely sourcing of raw materials.
• Work with sales & demand planning to align production schedules with market demand.
• Optimize end-to-end supply chain to reduce lead times and working capital.

6. People Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and build capability in production, stores, and logistics teams.
• Implement performance-driven culture with clear KPIs and accountability.
• Foster collaboration between plant teams and central functions.

7. Cost & Financial Control

• Own P&L accountability for operations, including production, stores, and logistics costs.
• Drive cost optimization through energy efficiency, transport optimization, and waste reduction.
• Regularly review cost per MT and implement savings initiatives.

8. Health, Safety & Environment (HSE)

• Ensure 100% compliance with HSE regulations across plants, stores, and logistics.
• Drive accident-free culture with training, audits, and corrective measures.
• Promote sustainability initiatives such as waste recycling, energy conservation, and green logistics.

Key Skills & Competencies:

• Strong leadership in managing end-to-end operations (production, stores, and logistics).
• Expertise in inventory management, distribution planning, and cost control.
• Knowledge of aqua feed industry standards and practices is preferable.
• High-level problem-solving, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s / Master’s degree in Engineering
• 15–20 years of experience in feed/food/agri industry with at least 5+ years in multi-plant operations leadership.
• Proven exposure to plant operations + stores + logistics management .