Plant Operations Manager (FMCG)

Job Title: Operations Manager

Location: Dammam, Saudi Arabia

Job Overview

We are a fast-growing FMCG food manufacturing startup in the final phase before commercial launch. The factory setup, production lines, and core team are in place, and we are now preparing for full-scale operations.

We are looking for a hands-on, strategic Operations Manager to lead day-to-day factory operations, optimize processes, and scale production from initial commercial volumes to higher capacities. This role is critical in ensuring operational excellence, efficiency, and readiness for growth in a dynamic startup environment.

Key Responsibilities
1. Production Planning & Forecasting

• Prepare monthly and quarterly production plans aligned with sales forecasts and plant capacity.
• Optimize allocation of manpower, raw materials, and machinery.
• Analyze historical production data to improve forecasting accuracy and minimize downtime.
• Monitor daily production output and adjust schedules for optimal efficiency.

2. Operational Efficiency & Process Optimization

• Review and improve production workflows, maintenance coordination, and support processes.
• Identify bottlenecks and implement corrective actions to improve productivity and reduce waste.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using data-driven decision-making.
• Support automation initiatives and introduce scalable processes where applicable.
• Ensure consistent improvement in productivity, quality, and cost efficiency.

3. Scaling & Capacity Expansion

• Develop strategies to support production scale-up within existing infrastructure.
• Plan and execute scaling initiatives such as additional shifts, process improvements, or automation.
• Coordinate with engineering and technical teams to enhance machine reliability and performance.
• Evaluate cost-benefit aspects of scaling options and recommend optimal approaches.
• Liaise with equipment vendors and third-party consultants as required.

4. Daily Production Oversight

• Oversee daily factory operations and production floor activities.
• Ensure production targets are met while maintaining quality, safety, and compliance standards.
• Resolve operational issues and ensure smooth coordination across departments.

5. Team Leadership & Management

The Operations Manager will directly manage production and support functions, including:

• Production floor supervision and shop-floor workforce
• Maintenance and electrical engineering team
• Quality/Lab, Warehouse, Safety, and Documentation functions

Key people responsibilities include:

• Coaching, mentoring, and performance management of teams.
• Aligning teams with operational KPIs, quality standards, and company objectives.
• Promoting strong communication and cross-functional collaboration.

6. New Product & Process Development

• Collaborate with founders and R&D teams on new product introductions.
• Assess production requirements for new SKUs and prepare operational readiness.
• Support pilot runs and transition to full-scale production.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• 10–12 years of experience in FMCG, food manufacturing, or batch-process environments.
• Proven experience in production planning, process optimization, and scaling operations.
• Strong leadership and people management capabilities.
• Solid understanding of quality, safety, and regulatory requirements.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Excel and data interpretation.
• Experience supporting senior leadership with operational and administrative inputs.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional coordination skills.

Key Competencies

• Production planning and forecasting
• Operational efficiency and process improvement (Lean mindset preferred)
• Strategic yet hands-on leadership
• Technical understanding of manufacturing equipment
• Strong ownership, accountability, and decision-making ability
• Ability to multitask and adapt in a startup environment
• High level of responsibility, including key-holder accountability

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: ﷼20.00 - ﷼23.00 per month

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Dammam: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Application Question(s):

• How many total years of experience do you have in FMCG or food manufacturing operations (including production planning, factory operations, or plant management)?
• Current Salary
• Expected Salary

Location:

• Dammam (Preferred)