Senior Plant Manager

Job Purpose:

The Senior Plant Manager is responsible for leading and overseeing production operations across multiple food manufacturing facilities. This role ensures efficient output, consistent quality standards, and optimal utilization of resources to support business growth. With a direct impact on operational performance and revenue, the Senior Plant Manager will drive production excellence, cost control, and workforce development. The role requires close collaboration with internal stakeholders including Quality Assurance, Operations, Finance, Warehouse, Supply Chain, Procurement, Development, Maintenance, and IT, while also managing external relationships with suppliers, vendors, and regulatory authorities. Reporting to the Director of Production, the Senior Plant Manager provides strategic leadership, ensures compliance, and fosters a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee daily operations and production delivery across all food manufacturing facilities.
• Ensure production schedules are met efficiently, safely, and in line with regulatory and internal standards.
• Assure product quality complies with food safety and regulatory frameworks.
• Hire, develop, and supervise plant staff, including leading production managers at each facility.
• Build a high-performing, diverse workforce and foster collaboration across sites.
• Implement and maintain food safety standards, quality control measures, OHSE compliance, and audit readiness.
• Conduct regular inspections and audits across facilities to ensure compliance with ISO, HACCP, and GFSI standards.
• Lead process improvement initiatives to reduce waste, improve yield, and enhance efficiency through Lean and Six Sigma practices.
• Manage operational budgets, monitor expenses, and optimize resource allocation.
• Maintain accurate records of production, audits, quality checks, and KPIs.
• Develop and present performance reports to senior leadership, using data-driven insights to support decision-making.
• Implement contingency plans for emergencies or production disruptions.
• Promote a culture of food safety, operational excellence, and continuous improvement across all plants.

Experience & Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Process Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.
• Minimum 10+ years of experience in plant or production management, preferably in food manufacturing , with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role .
• Strong background in production planning, quality control, food safety, and compliance.
• Proven track record in managing multi-site operations or start-ups of new facilities.
• Experience with international food safety standards (ISO 9001, ISO 22000, HACCP, GFSI, OHSAS 18001 / ISO 45001).
• Budget management and cost control expertise.

Certifications (Advantageous):

• ISO 9001, ISO 22000, ISO 14001, ISO 45001 / OHSAS 18001, HACCP, GFSI Lead Auditor, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong leadership and people management skills with the ability to inspire and develop teams across multiple sites.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and analytical abilities.
• Outstanding communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong organizational and planning capabilities, with the ability to meet tight deadlines.
• Proficiency in ERP and procurement systems (Oracle or equivalent).
• Fluent in English; Arabic language skills are an advantage.
• Willingness to work extended hours if required by operational needs.